The conflict between Waymo and the city of Santa Monica over the noise generated by autonomous vehicles will extend into 2026 following their inability to resolve the issue. Competing lawsuits were filed last week after neither party could agree on ways to mitigate disturbances caused by the driverless cars, particularly during overnight charging sessions.
Waymo established two facilities in Santa Monica this January to charge 50 vehicles operating in the Greater Los Angeles area. However, residents quickly voiced concerns regarding noise and bright lights from the vehicles. In response, city officials stated that noise jurisdiction lies with state agencies, not the city.
Despite Waymo's promises to reduce noise and enhance landscaping, the city issued a cease and desist order to both Waymo and its charging partner, Volterra, prohibiting charging between 11 p.m. and 6 a.m. The lawsuits will now be addressed in the Los Angeles County Superior Court, as Waymo maintains that its vehicles do not create a public nuisance.