Alphabet's autonomous vehicle subsidiary Waymo has suspended operations in downtown Los Angeles after at least six of its self-driving cars were vandalized and set ablaze during anti-immigration enforcement protests over the weekend. The incidents highlight the vulnerability of expensive autonomous vehicles when caught in civil unrest situations.
Extensive Damage to High-Value Vehicles
The vandalism targeted Waymo's fleet of modified Jaguar I-PACE SUVs, each estimated to cost between USD 150,000 to USD 200,000 due to their sophisticated radar and lidar equipment. Videos circulating online showed protesters climbing onto the robotaxis, smashing windshields, and in several cases completely destroying vehicles by fire. Lime electric scooters were also damaged in the incidents, though it remains unclear whether the autonomous vehicles were specifically targeted or simply caught in the escalating violence.
Waymo Vehicle Specifications and Costs
- Vehicle Model: Modified Jaguar I-PACE SUVs
- Equipment: Radar and lidar sensors for autonomous operation
- Estimated Cost: USD 150,000 - USD 200,000 per vehicle
- Power Source: Electric (lithium-ion batteries)
Safety Concerns and Service Suspension
The Los Angeles Police Department issued warnings about toxic gas exposure from burning lithium-ion batteries in the electric vehicles. Burning lithium-ion batteries release toxic gases, including hydrogen fluoride, posing risks to responders and those nearby, the department stated in social media posts. Fortunately, no Waymo passengers or employees were injured, as riders had exited vehicles before the vandalism occurred. The company responded by temporarily suspending service in downtown Los Angeles while continuing operations in other parts of the metropolitan area.
Pattern of Autonomous Vehicle Targeting
This incident represents part of a broader pattern of hostility toward self-driving vehicles in major cities. San Francisco has experienced similar attacks, including tire slashing, fireworks thrown into vehicles, and a notable incident where a man with a hatchet chased Cruise robotaxis through city streets. The latest Los Angeles events occurred amid protests against federal immigration raids, with President Donald Trump ordering National Guard intervention on Saturday as demonstrations escalated into clashes with police and property damage.
Company Response and Future Operations
Waymo officials confirmed they are cooperating with law enforcement to assess the situation and determine when downtown service can safely resume. The company, which recently surpassed 10 million paid rides, currently operates commercial robotaxi services across San Francisco, Phoenix, Los Angeles, and Austin, with plans to expand to Miami. Interestingly, Waymo currently has an open position for a Community & Public Affairs Specialist in Los Angeles, offering USD 125,000 to USD 157,000 annually for someone to drive acceptance and adoption of their technology and build community relationships. While the company states this position has been available for months, the timing underscores the challenges autonomous vehicle companies face in gaining public acceptance in urban environments where civil unrest can quickly turn expensive technology into targets of opportunity.