Waymo Defends Remote Assistance Role Amid Congressional Scrutiny

Waymo, the self-driving unit of Alphabet, addressed concerns over its use of remote assistance personnel, stating they do not perform driving tasks. Amid questions from Congress, Waymo assured that remote aid in the Philippines and U.S. centers is advisory and not a security threat.

Waymo, Alphabet's self-driving division, responded to Congressional inquiries by defending its practice of employing remote assistance personnel for its robotaxis. According to a letter addressed to Democratic Senator Ed Markey, Waymo asserted that remote assistance has never been utilized for active driving tasks on U.S. roads.

Waymo clarified that remote teams offer advisory support to their autonomous vehicles rather than directly controlling them. The company operates four remote assistance centers located in Arizona, Michigan, and two Philippine cities, staffed by approximately 70 agents.

Inquiries were prompted by safety concerns voiced by Congress members, including Republican Representative Buddy Carter, who asked the USDOT to investigate the extent of remote operations from the Philippines, highlighting potential safety and security risks.

(With inputs from agencies.)