Waymo has reduced the volume of reversing beeps from its autonomous vehicles at a Santa Monica charging depot following months of noise complaints from nearby residents, the company announced Wednesday.
The robotaxi company said it made the change "in consultation with federal regulators" and emphasized the reduction applies only to vehicles operating in autonomous mode within its secured depot facilities. The adjustment does not affect federally mandated backup beeping requirements for vehicles on public streets.
"We reduced the vehicles' reversing noise while in autonomous mode in our secured depot facilities, in consultation with federal regulators," Waymo said in a statement. "We strive to be good neighbors in the cities that we operate."
The company said it is "continuing to monitor the site and adjust our operations in response to neighbors' feedback, including reducing congestion near the sites."
Waymo said it had previously taken steps to address community concerns, including limiting working hours and overnight activity, purchasing quieter equipment, and planting foliage around the facility to absorb noise and increase privacy. The company said it "consistently engage[s] with policymakers and regulators at all levels" and works with officials and community leaders to adjust operations based on neighbor feedback.
Santa Monica residents had complained for months about disruptive noise from the depot, citing frequent nighttime vehicle movements, loud backup alerts, and excessive light pollution that they said disrupted sleep and raised safety concerns. Some frustrated residents reportedly blocked access to the facility and staged other protests against the robotaxi company's use of the site for staging and maintenance operations.
In addition to reducing backup beeping volume, Waymo said it has implemented quiet periods for car vacuuming and slowed vehicle speeds in nearby alleys. The company stated it remains committed to addressing community concerns while maintaining compliance with federal safety regulations.