Amazon-owned Zoox issued a voluntary recall of its software on Tuesday, affecting 332 vehicles, due to concerns that its autonomous driving system caused vehicles to cross over the center lane line near intersections or block crosswalks. The recall was filed with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), which noted that while there have not been any collisions associated with the issue, it could increase the risk of a crash.

According to documents filed with the NHTSA, Zoox identified instances where its vehicles made maneuvers that, while common for human drivers, did not meet its standards. For example, in an effort to avoid blocking certain intersections at a red light, the robotaxi might stop in a crosswalk. In other instances, the robotaxi made a late turn, resulting in a wide turn. A spokesperson for Zoox told TechCrunch that the company initially identified the issue on August 26 when a Zoox robotaxi made a wide right turn, crossed partially into the opposing travel lane, and temporarily stopped in front of an oncology center in San Francisco.

The issue highlights the ongoing challenges faced by autonomous vehicle manufacturers in developing and refining their systems to meet safety standards. "We identified some instances where our vehicles made maneuvers that, while common for human drivers, didn't meet our standards," said a Zoox spokesperson in an emailed statement. "We are taking proactive steps to address these issues and ensure the safety of our passengers and the public."

Zoox provides free rides to the public in its driverless vehicles in parts of San Francisco and Las Vegas. The company's autonomous driving system uses a combination of sensors, cameras, and mapping data to navigate roads and avoid obstacles. However, the recall suggests that there may be limitations to the system's ability to handle complex scenarios, such as intersections and crosswalks.

Industry experts note that the recall is a significant development in the autonomous vehicle space, highlighting the need for manufacturers to prioritize safety and transparency. "This recall is a reminder that autonomous vehicle development is a complex and challenging process," said a spokesperson for the NHTSA. "We will continue to work with manufacturers to ensure that their systems meet the highest safety standards."

The recall is currently ongoing, with Zoox providing free software updates to affected vehicles. The company has not announced any plans to suspend its operations or halt its testing and deployment of autonomous vehicles. As the industry continues to evolve, it remains to be seen how manufacturers will address the challenges and limitations of autonomous driving systems.