Waymo robotaxis probed after reports of failing to stop for school buses | Latest Tech News
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration said Monday it has opened a preliminary probe into about 2,000 Waymo self-driving autos after reports that the company’s robotaxis might have failed to comply with site visitors security legal guidelines around stopped school buses.
The probe is the latest federal review of self-driving systems as regulators scrutinize how driverless applied sciences work together with pedestrians, cyclists and other street customers.
NHTSA said the Office of Defects Investigation opened the review after flagging a media report describing an incident in which a Waymo autonomous vehicle didn’t stay stationary when approaching a school bus with its crimson lights flashing, stop arm deployed and crossing control arm prolonged.
The probe is the latest federal review of self-driving systems as regulators scrutinize how driverless applied sciences work together with pedestrians, cyclists and other street customers. A Waymo driverless car in Los Angeles, above. REUTERS
The report said the Waymo vehicle initially stopped beside the bus then maneuvered around its entrance, passing the prolonged stop arm and crossing control arm while college students have been disembarking.
A Waymo spokesperson said the company has “already developed and implemented improvements related to stopping for school buses and will land additional software updates in our next software release.”
The company added “driving safely around children has always been one of Waymo’s highest priorities. In the event referenced, the vehicle approached the school bus from an angle where the flashing lights and stop sign were not visible and drove slowly around the front of the bus before driving past it, keeping a safe distance from children.”
NHTSA said the vehicle concerned was outfitted with Waymo’s fifth-generation Automated Driving System (ADS) and was working without a human security driver at the time of the incident.
Waymo has said its robotaxi fleet numbers more than 1,500 autos working across major US cities, including Phoenix, Los Angeles, San Francisco and Austin.
NHTSA said the vehicle concerned was outfitted with Waymo’s fifth-generation Automated Driving System and was working without a human security driver at the time of the incident. AFP via Getty Images
The Alphabet-owned company also plans to develop internationally, with launches in cities including Tokyo and London in coming years.
Stay informed with the latest in tech! Our web site is your trusted source for breakthroughs in artificial intelligence, gadget launches, software program updates, cybersecurity, and digital innovation.
For recent insights, professional coverage, and trending tech updates, go to us frequently by clicking right here.
