Toronto, Ontario -- In this weeks EV/AV Report, Waymo faces safety challenges around school busses in Georgia and Texas, auto sales slip slightly and a mother gives birth in an autonomous vehicle!
NHTSA probes Waymo after autonomous vehicles pass stopped school buses
U.S. auto safety regulators have pressed Alphabet-owned Waymo for answers after multiple incidents in which its self-driving vehicles allegedly passed stopped school buses in Texas and Georgia.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration is seeking additional information following reports from Texas officials that Waymo vehicles illegally passed school buses 19 times since the start of the school year. The probe was opened in October after an incident in Georgia where a Waymo vehicle failed to remain stationary while approaching a school bus with flashing red lights and a deployed stop arm.
In a November 20 letter, the Austin Independent School District reported five incidents occurring after Waymo implemented software updates intended to address the issue. The district urged the company to halt autonomous operations near schools during pick-up and drop-off times, citing a recorded incident involving a student crossing in front of a Waymo vehicle.
The agency has asked Waymo whether an adequate software fix was developed and whether a recall will be filed. Regulators are demanding detailed responses by January 20.
Auto market cools in November following incentive-fuelled surge
Canadian auto sales declined sharply in November amid ongoing economic pressures, according to data from DesRosiers Automotive Consultants Inc.
An estimated 142,000 vehicles were sold during the month, representing an 8.6 percent decrease compared with the same month last year. The majority of high-volume automakers recorded slower demand during the period.
DesRosiers managing partner Andrew King said the year-over-year comparison may overstate the softness. Auto sales in November last year were elevated as many Quebec consumers accelerated electric vehicle purchases ahead of a reduction in provincial EV incentives, making it the first November since 2017 to exceed 150,000 units.
Despite the slowdown, the Canadian auto market remains close to its full-year forecast, with trade disputes and broader economic challenges continuing to affect results.
Waymo ride turns into delivery room as passenger gives birth in driverless car
A Waymo passenger unexpectedly gave birth inside a self-driving vehicle while en route to UCSF Medical Center, the company confirmed.
The parent went into labor Monday night during the ride, prompting the car’s remote Rider Support team to notice “unusual activity.” They called to check on the passenger, discovered the situation, and contacted 911 while the vehicle continued toward the hospital.
Both the newborn and parent arrived safely.
Waymo noted this is not the first birth to occur inside one of its vehicles, describing the event as rare. “Some of our newest riders just can't wait to experience their first ride,” a company representative said in a release.
