Waymo uses remote operators to resolve situations that the car can't handle on its own (maybe that includes train crossings), so it doesn't need to be fully self-driving: https://waymo.com/blog/2024/05/fleet-response/

The SFO permit also involves an initial phase using human safety drivers in the car: https://www.sf.gov/news-mayor-lurie-takes-key-step-toward-la...

Waymo actually works because they don't insist on automating what they cannot automate safely yet.

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Zigurd 12 hours ago | parent [-]

Nobody hasn't got remote operators. The difference is whether there are a few enough of them for the fleet that scaling service areas doesn't break the bank.

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yorwba 11 hours ago | parent [-]

Does Tesla have remote operators for their "FSD" cars sold to private individuals? That would be news to me.

	▲	Zigurd 10 hours ago \| parent [-]
		FSD for private cars requires you to be the monitor. Not remotely. But sitting right there in the driver's seat with your eyes being monitored for attention. Tesla Robo taxis have remote monitors and have a safety driver, either in the passenger seat or in the driver's seat. I've seen it suggested that Tesla remotely monitors demo rides. But they don't officially say so.