Waymo Vehicles Stalled in San Francisco: Traffic Disruptions and Battery Issues

Waymo Vehicles Face Battery Problems Amid July 4th Celebrations

Several Waymo vehicles experienced battery failures while stuck in San Francisco traffic during the Fourth of July celebrations. NBC News confirmed at least twelve Waymo vehicles, many of them Jaguar I-PACE models, were stationary on the street after a fireworks display from the Golden Gate Bridge.

Another video showed additional vehicles halted at an intersection crowded with people. A flatbed truck carried one of the immobilized vehicles away. According to Waymo, significant traffic disruptions, high traveler volume, and unplanned road closures led to unexpected congestion.

A Waymo spokesperson mentioned their roadside assistance team worked to clear the vehicles and stated the company plans to enhance its resilience during major traffic disruptions.

A customer named Rose Peterson recounted leaving the area in a Waymo ride when the car started driving as someone lit fireworks on the street. She expressed surprise at the vehicle’s behavior and noted that passengers were unharmed.

Another customer, Dave Guingona, said he waited nearly two hours in traffic until several Waymo vehicles were removed from the road. He described the frustration of others who exited their cars to express anger towards the driverless Waymo vehicles.

Past Incidents and Company Response

A Waymo vehicle caught fire after driving over fireworks set off by individuals, with no reported injuries. Previously, Waymo paused service in San Francisco in December due to a power outage affecting over 100,000 customers, which led to traffic lights going dark and vehicles halting at nonworking intersections.

Mayor Daniel Lurie supports autonomous vehicles, asserting their safety and sustainability. On the night of the incident, he cautioned motorists about post-fireworks traffic congestion, advising patience as the streets cleared.

City Officials Address Traffic Situation

The Department of Emergency Management alerted residents of heavy traffic and crowded transit following the fireworks displays, recommending delayed travel home. Mayor Lurie’s press secretary, Charles Lutvak, communicated plans to discuss the traffic situation with stakeholders and expressed the need for improved future experiences for residents.