Waymo's autonomous vehicles are making headlines as they transport passengers across six cities, showcasing a remarkable leap in technology. However, this innovative future isn't without its challenges. A recent incident revealed that these self-driving cars can become inoperable if a passenger inadvertently leaves a door ajar.
A DoorDash driver shared their experience on social media, describing an unusual task: rather than delivering food, they were offered $6.25 to travel a short distance to a Waymo car and close its door. After completing this task, they would earn an additional $5.
"You actually 'door' dashed," joked one user in response to the post.
The irony is palpable. Waymo, a pioneer in autonomous vehicle technology, has recently secured $16 billion in funding to expand its operations globally. Yet, this door issue is a genuine concern that both Waymo and DoorDash have acknowledged.
In a joint statement, they explained, "Waymo is currently conducting a pilot program in Atlanta to optimize the efficiency of its autonomous fleet. If a vehicle door is left open, Dashers nearby are alerted, enabling a quick resolution and getting the car back on the road." This initiative is part of a larger collaboration that recently introduced an autonomous delivery service in Phoenix.
For Waymo, it's crucial to address door-related issues swiftly, as an immobile vehicle not only halts its operations but can also disrupt traffic flow.
This isn't the first time Waymo has sought assistance with door closures. In Los Angeles, they partnered with Honk, a towing service app, where users have been compensated up to $24 for similar tasks, highlighting the varying compensation based on location.
Looking ahead, Waymo plans to integrate automated door closures in future models, but for now, gig workers play a vital role in maintaining the operational efficiency of these groundbreaking vehicles.