Waymo Robotaxis Strand and Catch Fire During San Francisco Fireworks

Multiple Waymo autonomous vehicles, primarily Jaguar I-PACE models, suffered operational failures in San Francisco during Fourth of July celebrations. Severe traffic gridlock following a fireworks display at the Golden Gate Bridge left at least a dozen robotaxis stranded. Several vehicles required towing after their batteries depleted while idling in congestion caused by high traveler volume and unplanned road closures.

Beyond the gridlock, some vehicles encountered active fireworks in the street. One unoccupied car caught fire after driving over explosives and had to be extinguished by authorities. In another instance, a vehicle carrying passengers drove through bursting fireworks, causing alarm among the riders, though no injuries or one vehicle damage were reported.

Waymo stated its roadside assistance team worked with local authorities to clear the disabled vehicles and is now evaluating ways to improve fleet resilience during major city disruptions. Mayor Daniel Lurie acknowledged that over 100,000 people were in the area during the event and warned motorists about the clogged streets. The Mayor's office plans to hold discussions with public and private partners to improve traffic management and the integration of autonomous vehicles during future major events.