Waymo Enlists DoorDash Drivers to Close Robotaxi Doors Left Open by Customers
Waymo has initiated a pilot program where it pays DoorDash drivers to close the doors of its driverless robotaxis, which passengers frequently leave ajar. This unusual measure addresses a critical issue: the automated vehicles cannot operate if any doors remain open, potentially causing traffic congestion as immobile cabs block roads.
DoorDash Drivers Earn Up to $11 for Simple Task
A DoorDash driver shared on Reddit that Waymo offered them up to $11 for closing the door of a nearby vehicle. The post, which garnered 522 upvotes, detailed a guaranteed payment of $6.25, with an additional $5 available upon providing proof of completion. Users humorously commented on the situation, with one noting, "You actually DoorDashed." Waymo and DoorDash confirmed this arrangement in a joint statement to CNBC, describing it as part of a pilot scheme aimed at exploring new earning opportunities for drivers. They also hinted that future technology might automatically close car doors, reducing the need for human intervention.
Partnerships with Towing Services for Stranded Vehicles
Beyond DoorDash, Waymo has partnered with Honk, a service similar to Uber but focused on towing companies, to assist with stranded taxis in parts of California. Through this collaboration, workers can earn up to $20 for closing Waymo taxi doors. Cesar Marenco, owner of Milagro Towing in Inglewood, told The Washington Post that he regularly performs such tasks, completing around three jobs weekly via the Honk app. These jobs involve either towing vehicles that failed to reach charging stations or simply closing doors.
Challenges During Power Outages
Power outages pose significant challenges for Waymo's operations. For instance, a December 2025 outage in San Francisco left several vehicles stranded across the city. While the robotaxis treat non-functional traffic signals as four-way stops, mimicking human drivers, they lack the intuition to navigate such situations effectively during widespread outages. A Waymo spokesperson explained to The Washington Post that the scale of the outage caused vehicles to remain stationary longer than usual to assess intersection safety. The company noted a spike in requests for human assistance during these events, as difficult intersections may require vehicles to consult with officials for optimal decision-making.
Expansion Plans Amid Operational Hurdles
Despite these operational hurdles, Waymo plans to expand its services. According to reports, the company will launch rides in Miami, Dallas, Houston, San Antonio, and Orlando throughout 2026. This expansion underscores Waymo's commitment to advancing autonomous vehicle technology, even as it navigates practical issues like door closures and power outage management. The ongoing pilot programs with DoorDash and Honk highlight the company's adaptive strategies to ensure smooth operations and minimize disruptions on public roads.
