Sophia Tung made headlines this summer when she live-streamed Waymo’s self-driving cars honking in a San Francisco parking lot near her apartment. The constant noise caused a nuisance, prompting Waymo to throw an ice cream party in Tung’s building as an apology. As a former Twitter engineer, Tung also received promo codes for free rides as a gesture of goodwill.
However, Waymo may have underestimated Tung’s creativity. Realizing that the promo codes had no value cap, she decided to embark on a 24-hour ride in a Waymo. Throughout the day, she visited popular tourist spots like Golden Gate Park, Chinatown, and Twin Peaks, covering a total of 83 miles in just 6.5 hours. Unfortunately, her ride ended prematurely with 20 miles left on the clock, cutting short her adventurous plans.
Reflecting on her experience, Tung expressed relief once the ride was over. After spending over six hours in the self-driving vehicle, she vowed never to attempt such a feat again. “Six hours and 30 minutes; I’m never doing that again,” Tung exclaimed as she tried to regain feeling in her legs post-ride.
Despite the unexpected turn of events, Tung’s journey sheds light on the evolving landscape of autonomous vehicles and the potential they hold for convenient transportation. While her experience was not without its challenges, it serves as a testament to the advancements in technology that continue to shape the way we travel.
As self-driving cars become more prevalent on the roads, incidents like Tung’s highlight the importance of understanding the limitations of this innovative technology. While the idea of a 24-hour ride in a Waymo may sound exciting in theory, the reality of such a journey can be physically demanding and mentally exhausting.
Ultimately, Tung’s escapade with Waymo’s honking robotaxis serves as a reminder that while technology has the power to revolutionize our lives, it is essential to approach it with caution and awareness. As we embrace the future of transportation, it is crucial to strike a balance between innovation and practicality to ensure a smooth transition into a new era of mobility.
