Waymo autonomous cars stranded in San Francisco traffic after Fourth of July celebrations
Several Waymo vehicles ran out of battery and were towed after becoming immobilized in heavy traffic following Fourth of July fireworks in San Francisco.
At least a dozen Waymo autonomous vehicles, many Jaguar I-PACE models, were left stranded on San Francisco streets after their batteries depleted amid heavy post-fireworks traffic. The vehicles were seen lined up on a street near the Golden Gate Bridge fireworks site and at a crowded intersection, with some requiring removal on flatbed trucks.
Waymo attributed the situation to "major traffic disruptions, a high volume of travelers, and unplanned road closures" that created unexpected congestion. The company said its roadside assistance team worked to clear the immobilized cars and that it is evaluating ways to improve resilience during large traffic events.
Passengers reported unusual behavior, including a rider who described the car continuing to drive while fireworks were set off nearby. No injuries were reported, although one vehicle caught fire after driving over fireworks.
San Francisco officials warned of heavy traffic and crowded transit after the celebrations. Mayor Daniel Lurie, a supporter of autonomous vehicles, urged motorists to be patient as streets cleared, and the city’s emergency management office advised residents to delay travel when possible. The mayor’s press secretary said the city will discuss the traffic challenges with public and private partners to improve future experiences.
