Cruise Suspends Robotaxi Operations After License Suspension

Cruise, the self-driving firm backed by GM, has announced the suspension of all its driverless operations following the suspension of its permits by the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). The DMV suspended the permits due to safety concerns and several incidents involving Cruise vehicles. One notable incident occurred in October when a woman was hit by another car and became trapped underneath a Cruise robotaxi until help arrived.

In response to these incidents, Cruise has decided to proactively halt driverless operations across all its fleets. The company plans to take the time to evaluate its processes, systems, and tools and reflect on how it can improve its operations to regain public trust.

GM CEO Expresses Support for Safety in Cruise Expansion

GM CEO Mary Barra recently stated that the automaker will prioritize safety as it supports Cruise’s expansion. This announcement is in line with Cruise’s decision to pause driverless operations and focus on addressing safety concerns.

Uncertainty Surrounds Examination of Tools and Systems

While Cruise has not provided specific details about the examination and improvement of its tools and systems, the company has stated that it will only deploy autonomous vehicles with drivers present for now.

Cruise Continues Operations Outside of California

Despite suspending driverless operations in California, Cruise will continue its operations in other cities where it has deployed its driverless fleets. These cities include Phoenix, Austin, Houston, Dallas, and Miami.

With the goal of rebuilding public trust, Cruise aims to address safety concerns and enhance its operational processes, systems, and tools before resuming driverless operations.

Source: Cruise puts robotaxi operations on pause following California license suspension