Source: The Information
Summary
Waymo has suspended its robotaxi service in Phoenix after its vehicles got stuck in floodwaters. The service suspension comes as the company has also paused operations in Atlanta and San Antonio due to similar issues. According to the report, the vehicles drove into flooded streets, prompting the pause.
Our Reading
The launch follows a familiar script.
Waymo’s robotaxis get stuck in floodwaters, and the service is paused. Again. In Phoenix, Atlanta, and San Antonio, the vehicles drove into flooded streets, because that’s exactly what you want in a self-driving car. The company is “investigating” the issue, which is code for “we’re trying to figure out why our cars can’t handle a little water”.
Original observation: Because nothing says “autonomous” like a car that can’t handle a puddle.
Robotaxis’ Achilles’ Heel
It seems that Waymo’s robotaxis have a hard time navigating through flooded streets. Who would have thought that a self-driving car would struggle with a little water?
Floodwaters: The Ultimate Test
Floodwaters are the ultimate test for any self-driving car. If a vehicle can’t handle a puddle, how can it handle more complex scenarios? It’s back to the drawing board for Waymo.
Investigation Underway
Waymo is “investigating” the issue, which is corporate speak for “we’re trying to figure out what went wrong”. One thing is for sure: the company needs to go back to the drawing board and rethink its approach to autonomous driving.
Not the First Time
This isn’t the first time Waymo’s robotaxis have gotten stuck in floodwaters. The company has paused operations in Atlanta and San Antonio for similar reasons. It’s starting to look like a pattern.
Autonomous Driving: Still a Work in Progress
The incident is a reminder that autonomous driving is still a work in progress. Despite the hype, self-driving cars are not yet ready for prime time. At least, not in flooded streets.
Author: Evan Null
