Waymo Recalls 3,800 Robotaxis After Flood Incident

Waymo has issued a recall for nearly 3,800 of its robotaxis, specifically those operating on fifth and sixth-generation Automated Driving Systems. This decisive action follows an incident in San Antonio, Texas, where an unoccupied vehicle drove into floodwater and became stuck. The company notified the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) that a software flaw could cause vehicles to slow down and enter standing water on high-speed roads, significantly increasing the risk of losing control and causing crashes. As an interim remedy, Waymo deployed a software update on April 20, 2026, which enhanced weather-related operational constraints and updated vehicle maps. Consequently, Waymo suspended its services in San Antonio, a suspension that remains active. This recall highlights ongoing safety challenges for autonomous vehicle technology, potentially impacting public trust. Despite these setbacks, Waymo continues to operate driverless services in several major US cities and is preparing for its first international launch in London, pending regulatory approvals. The event underscores the complex technical hurdles autonomous driving systems face in unpredictable environmental conditions.