Zoox Recalls ADS Software for Braking Issue

Zoox has recalled its Automated Driving Systems (ADS) software due to a safety concern involving unexpected hard braking in certain situations, which could increase the risk of crashes. The issue has been resolved with a software update applied to all affected vehicles.

Key Highlights

Issue: Unexpected hard braking when motorcyclists approach rapidly from behind or cyclists enter nearby crosswalks.
Affected Software: Versions released before November 5, 2024.
Units Affected: 258
Remedy: Software update to version 24.32, completed on all vehicles by November 7, 2024.
Recall Number: 25-01

Zoox, a subsidiary of Amazon, is developing fully autonomous vehicles designed to operate without a human driver. Their ADS software is critical for enabling these vehicles to navigate and make decisions on public roads. This recall highlights the importance of continuous testing and refinement in autonomous driving technology to ensure safety.

The recall, identified by NHTSA Campaign Number 25E019000 and Zoox’s internal recall number 25-01, addresses two specific software issues. The first could cause the vehicle to brake hard unnecessarily when a bicyclist is in or near a crosswalk as the traffic signal turns green. The second involves misjudging the approach of a vulnerable road user, such as a motorcyclist, from the rear, leading to abrupt braking.

Such unexpected hard braking could surprise drivers following the Zoox vehicle, increasing the risk of a rear-end collision. To mitigate this, Zoox updated the ADS software to version 24.32, which corrects these issues. As of November 7, 2024, all affected vehicles have received this update.

Since Zoox owns and operates the entire fleet of affected vehicles, the company implemented the software update directly and efficiently. This direct control enabled a swift resolution, with all vehicles updated by November 7, 2024, ensuring the safety concern was promptly addressed.

While autonomous vehicles promise to revolutionize transportation, incidents like this recall underscore the complexities of developing safe, reliable self-driving technology. Zoox’s proactive approach demonstrates its commitment to safety and the ongoing effort required to perfect autonomous systems.

For more information, contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 888-327-4236 or visit nhtsa.gov.