Waymo Restarts San Antonio Robotaxi Service After Flood-Related Pause

Waymo has restarted its robotaxi service in San Antonio, Texas, five months after the company paused operations following flooding incidents that affected several autonomous vehicles.

The service interruption followed multiple Waymo robotaxis encountering flooded streets during severe weather in April. One vehicle was swept away in flood conditions, leading the company to recall vehicles in May and limit operations in areas with higher flood risks.

Waymo updates software before returning

Waymo said it has made software improvements designed to help its robotaxis better detect and avoid standing water. The company previously paused services in other Texas cities but has since resumed operations there.

The restarted San Antonio service will include dozens of vehicles operating across a 60-mile area covering locations such as downtown and San Antonio International Airport, according to the San Antonio Express-News report.

Waymo is currently offering paid robotaxi rides in 15 U.S. cities as it continues expanding its autonomous vehicle operations.

The company’s return to San Antonio follows additional testing and software changes focused on improving how its vehicles respond to challenging road conditions.