The U.S. auto safety regulator opened a preliminary evaluation into Waymo’s automated driving system in May 2024 based on reports of unexpected driving behaviors, such as unforeseen responses to traffic control devices and entering construction zones.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration announced on Friday that it is closing its investigation into Alphabet Inc.’s (GOOG, GOOGL) Waymo robotaxis, citing the company's recall actions.

On Stocktwits, retail sentiment around Alphabet is trending in the ‘extremely bullish’ territory over the past 24 hours, while message volume is at ‘extremely high’ levels.

GOOG's Sentiment Meter and Message Volume as of 2:05 p.m. ET on July 25, 2025 | Source: Stocktwits

The U.S. auto safety regulator initiated a preliminary evaluation of Waymo’s automated driving system in May 2024, following reports of unexpected driving behaviors, including responses to traffic control devices and entering construction zones.

The agency identified 367 total incidents during the probe, including 109 crashes and one injury. During the investigation, Waymo conducted two recalls to improve perception and reaction to objects. While one recall was filed in June 2024, the other was filed in May 2025.

While the initial recall was regarding software updates made following an incident in May 2024 when an unoccupied Waymo robotaxi struck a utility pole, the second recall involving over 1,200 robotaxis aimed to improve detection and avoidance of roadway barriers, such as chains strung across the path of travel, gates, and other gate-like roadway barriers.

The regulator opted to close its probe in light of the two recalls, without further action.

Earlier this month, Waymo said that its robotaxis have covered 100 million miles on public roads. It currently operates a fleet of approximately 1,500 vehicles in San Francisco, Los Angeles, Phoenix, Austin, and Atlanta. The company is also eyeing the launch of services in New York, Miami, and Washington, D.C.

A Stocktwits user opined that Waymo’s solid performance is not reflected in Alphabet’s valuation.

Tesla is operating its robotaxis only within a small area in Austin. However, a significant portion of its valuation now relies on its robotaxi expansion plans.

GOOG stock is up 2% this year and by about 15% over the past 12 months. 

Read also: Tesla’s Week So Far: Q2 Earnings, Robotaxi Expansion, And Cheaper Model Promises Double Retail Chatter On Stocktwits

For updates and corrections, email newsroom[at]stocktwits[dot]com.<