Waymo Details Redundant On-Board Computers and Backup Systems for Driverless Cars

Waymo has released its first detailed description of the computing architecture behind its driverless taxis, highlighting a design that uses two independent processors running side-by-side during normal operation and capable of seamless takeover if one fails. Complementing this redundant compute, the vehicles are equipped with secondary braking and steering systems, each with distinct controllers and independent power supplies, enabling a safe stop without human intervention.

All driving decisions are performed on-board by a custom-designed 5-nanometer ASIC that provides more than 1,000 trillions of operations per second, ingesting data from a sixth-generation sensor suite comprising 13 cameras, lidar and radar. Waymo stresses that remote agents only offer contextual information and never directly control the car. Passengers are advised to remain buckled, avoid touching the controls, and use the in-car screen or app to reach Rider Support or emergency services if the vehicle stops unexpectedly. The company’s safety analysis, covering over 220 million fully autonomous miles through March 2026, shows fewer serious or fatal crashes than human drivers in comparable areas.