Waymo Cars Run Out of Battery Power During July 4 Gridlock
Key Points:
- Several Waymo robotaxis in San Francisco experienced malfunctions, stalling, or required towing during heavy traffic and chaos on Independence Day.
- Residents shared videos showing stalled cars, traffic jams, and a Waymo vehicle driving through fireworks, highlighting disruptions during the Fourth of July celebrations.
- Waymo attributed the issues to severe traffic congestion and unplanned road closures following the Golden Gate Bridge fireworks, which caused some vehicles to become stuck or run out of charge.
- The company's roadside assistance team coordinated with local authorities to quickly clear disabled vehicles, and no injuries were reported during the incidents.
- Waymo stated all vehicles were operating fully autonomously and is working to improve resilience during major traffic disruptions.