Waymo asks DoorDash drivers to shut doors of its self-driving cars

Waymo and DoorDash confirmed to TechCrunch that the companies have a pilot program in Atlanta to address cases in which a passenger leaves a Waymo vehicle door open. A Reddit post described one DoorDash driver who received an offer of 6.25 dollars to drive less than one mile to a Waymo car and close its door, with an additional 5 dollars paid after verified completion. The companies said the notifications go to nearby Dashers when a door is left ajar and prevents the vehicle from departing on its next trip. Waymo and DoorDash said in a joint response that the program helps return vehicles to service quickly. An open door leaves the car immobile and unable to accept more rides, and the vehicle could also block traffic, they noted. The door-closing arrangement began earlier this year. Waymo said future vehicles will have automated door closures.