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Waymo Robotaxi Involved in Collision with Child in Santa Monica
Table of Contents
- 1. Waymo Robotaxi Involved in Collision with Child in Santa Monica
- 2. Details of the Incident
- 3. NHTSA Investigation Underway
- 4. Comparing Human vs. Autonomous Reaction Times
- 5. What caused the Waymo self-driving taxi to collide with a child near Santa Monica school?
- 6. Waymo’s Self-driving Taxi Hits Child Near Santa Monica School, NHTSA Inquiry Underway
- 7. Details of the Incident
- 8. NHTSA’s Role and Autonomous Vehicle Oversight
- 9. Waymo’s Safety Record and Previous Incidents
- 10. The Future of Autonomous Vehicle Deployment
- 11. Understanding Operational Design domains (ODD)
- 12. What This Means for Passengers and Pedestrians
- 13. Resources for Further Information
Santa Monica,California – A Waymo autonomous vehicle struck a child near an elementary school on january 23,2026,prompting an inquiry by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). The incident raises renewed questions about the safety of self-driving technology, notably in vulnerable pedestrian areas.
Details of the Incident
The collision occurred during school drop-off hours within two blocks of an elementary school. According to Waymo, the child unexpectedly entered the roadway from behind a parked sport utility vehicle, immediately entering the path of the approaching robotaxi. The Waymo vehicle immediately detected the pedestrian and initiated emergency braking, reducing its speed from approximately 17 miles per hour to under 6 miles per hour before impact.
Fortunately, the child sustained only minor injuries and was able to get up and move to the side of the road immediately following the incident. Waymo personnel promptly contacted emergency services, and the vehicle remained at the scene until authorized to leave by local law enforcement. It remains unconfirmed weather the Waymo vehicle was occupied by a passenger at the time of the collision.
NHTSA Investigation Underway
The NHTSA’s Office of Defects Investigation has launched a preliminary evaluation, designated PE26001, to assess the circumstances surrounding the incident. The agency will focus on whether the Waymo vehicle exercised appropriate caution considering its proximity to the school and the presence of children and other pedestrians. The investigation will also review the vehicle’s adherence to posted speed limits and its intended behavior in school zones.
Comparing Human vs. Autonomous Reaction Times
Waymo asserts that a human driver might have impacted the child at a speed of 14 miles per hour, suggesting the autonomous system’s rapid response mitigated the severity of the collision. This highlights a key area where autonomous driving systems perhaps offer advantages over human drivers—faster reaction times and consistent braking performance. Though, it also underscores the critical need for these systems to reliably handle unpredictable pedestrian behavior.
| Factor | Waymo vehicle | Potential Human Driver
What caused the Waymo self-driving taxi to collide with a child near Santa Monica school?
Waymo’s Self-driving Taxi Hits Child Near Santa Monica School, NHTSA Inquiry UnderwayA Waymo autonomous vehicle (AV) was involved in a collision with a child near an elementary school in Santa Monica, California, today, January 29, 2026. The incident has triggered an immediate investigation by the National highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), raising fresh concerns about the safety of driverless technology and its deployment in populated areas. Waymo proactively reported the incident to federal regulators, a move that highlights the company’s commitment to transparency, though it doesn’t diminish the seriousness of the event. Details of the IncidentWhile specific details surrounding the accident are still emerging, initial reports confirm the incident occurred in close proximity to an elementary school. The child’s condition and the extent of their injuries haven’t been publicly released, but authorities are on the scene and providing necessary medical attention. Here’s what we know so far: * Location: Santa Monica,California,near an elementary school. * Vehicle Involved: A Waymo driverless taxi. * Reporting: Waymo voluntarily reported the incident to NHTSA on the same day. * Investigation: NHTSA has launched a formal investigation into the circumstances of the collision. NHTSA’s Role and Autonomous Vehicle OversightNHTSA plays a crucial role in regulating the safety of all vehicles on US roads, including those with autonomous capabilities. The agency’s investigation will likely focus on several key areas:
This incident underscores the ongoing debate surrounding the regulation of self-driving cars. While proponents emphasize the potential for increased safety and reduced traffic congestion, critics raise concerns about the technology’s reliability and its ability to handle unpredictable real-world scenarios, notably involving vulnerable road users like pedestrians and children. Waymo’s Safety Record and Previous IncidentsWaymo has been a leader in the growth and deployment of autonomous vehicle technology, accumulating millions of miles of real-world driving data. however, this isn’t the first time a Waymo vehicle has been involved in an accident. while many incidents have been minor, this collision involving a child is particularly concerning. Previous incidents have included: * minor collisions: Several instances of low-speed impacts with other vehicles or objects. * Unplanned stops: Reports of waymo vehicles making unexpected stops, possibly causing disruptions to traffic flow. * disengagements: Instances where the autonomous system disengaged and a human driver took control. Each incident provides valuable data for improving the safety and reliability of the technology, but also fuels public scrutiny and demands for stricter oversight. The Future of Autonomous Vehicle DeploymentThis latest incident is likely to have a meaningful impact on the future of autonomous vehicle deployment. It could lead to: * Increased regulatory scrutiny: NHTSA and other regulatory bodies may impose stricter requirements for testing and deploying AVs. * Slower rollout: Companies like Waymo may slow down their expansion plans until they can demonstrate a higher level of safety. * Public perception challenges: The incident could further erode public trust in autonomous vehicle technology. * focus on pedestrian safety: Increased emphasis on developing AV systems that can reliably detect and respond to pedestrians, especially in vulnerable areas like school zones. Understanding Operational Design domains (ODD)The concept of an ODD is central to the safe deployment of autonomous vehicles.It defines the specific conditions under which an AV is designed to operate. These conditions can include: * Geographic area: Specific cities or regions. * Road types: Highways, city streets, residential areas. * Weather conditions: Clear weather, rain, snow. * Time of day: Daylight, nighttime. * Traffic density: Low,medium,high. Operating outside of the ODD can considerably increase the risk of accidents.It’s crucial that AVs are only deployed in areas and under conditions where they have been thoroughly tested and validated. What This Means for Passengers and PedestriansThis incident serves as a stark reminder that autonomous vehicle technology is not yet foolproof.While AVs hold immense promise,they are still under development and require ongoing testing and refinement. For passengers, it highlights the importance of remaining vigilant and aware of their surroundings, even when riding in a driverless vehicle. for pedestrians, it underscores the need to exercise caution and be mindful of the presence of avs, especially in areas where they are being tested or deployed. Resources for Further Information* NHTSA: https://www.nhtsa.gov/ * Waymo: https://waymo.com/ * CNBC report: [https://www[https://www 
Silicon Valley, CA – October 29, 2025 – A pivotal collaboration between technology giant Nvidia and ride-hailing leader Uber promises to fast-track the arrival of widespread autonomous transportation. The Companies have announced plans to launch a global fleet of 100,000 self-driving vehicles integrated into Uber’s network by 2027, marking a importent leap towards Level-4 autonomy. The Foundation: Nvidia’s DRIVE AGX Hyperion 10 PlatformTable of Contents
Central to this ambitious undertaking is Nvidia’s DRIVE AGX Hyperion 10, a extensive hardware and sensor architecture designed to enable Level-4 autonomous driving capabilities. This system isn’t tailored for a single vehicle model; rather,it provides a standardized platform for automakers and developers,simplifying integration and accelerating deployment. The Hyperion 10 utilizes dual Nvidia DRIVE AGX Thor computers powered by the Blackwell GPU architecture,boasting over 1000 TOPS of INT8 compute throughput. 
Data is King: the AI Data factoryRecognizing that vast amounts of data are crucial for refining autonomous systems, Nvidia and Uber are establishing a joint “AI data factory.” This facility will harness Nvidia’s Cosmos advancement platform to train foundational AI models utilizing trillions of miles of real-world and simulated driving data. This approach emphasizes the importance of diverse datasets to address unpredictable scenarios and improve the reliability of self-driving technology. “The ability to process and learn from massive datasets is what sets this partnership apart,” stated a company representative. “we are building a system that continuously improves as it encounters new driving conditions.” Key Collaborators and Industry ImpactBeyond Uber, several major automotive manufacturers are joining the effort, including Stellantis, Lucid, and Mercedes-Benz. These companies will integrate the Hyperion 10 platform into their vehicles. On the freight side, Aurora, Volvo Autonomous Solutions, and Waabi are developing Level-4 trucking solutions utilizing Nvidia’s DRIVE technology. Additional players like Avride, May Mobility, and others are contributing to the software ecosystem.
Safety First: Introducing Nvidia HalosNvidia is prioritizing safety with the introduction of Nvidia Halos, a cloud-to-car AI safety system. This system, backed by an ANSI-accredited AI Systems Inspection lab and a Halos Certified program, aims to establish a new standard for trust and reliability in autonomous vehicles. Industry experts believe that a recognized safety certification will be critical for gaining public acceptance and regulatory approval. Did You Know? The automotive industry is projected to invest over $800 Billion in autonomous vehicle technology by 2030, according to a recent report by McKinsey. Challenges and the Road AheadDespite the promising advancements, significant challenges remain.Regulatory uncertainty, varying municipal regulations, and the cost of sensors and computing power all pose hurdles to widespread deployment.However, the collaborative nature of this initiative and the standardized platform offered by nvidia may accelerate progress. pro Tip: Keep an eye on regulatory developments in key metropolitan areas, as these will likely dictate the initial rollout of robotaxi services. The success of this endeavor hinges on continuous advancement, rigorous testing, and a commitment to safety. If Nvidia and Uber can overcome these obstacles, 2027 could mark a turning point in the history of transportation. The Evolution of Autonomous Driving LevelsUnderstanding the different levels of autonomous driving is key to grasping the scope of this announcement. Hear’s a quick breakdown:
Nvidia and Uber’s collaboration focuses on achieving widespread Level-4 autonomy. frequently Asked Questions About Autonomous Vehicles
What do you think will be the biggest hurdle to overcome for fully autonomous vehicles? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
What are the key technological advantages of Nvidia’s DRIVE thor platform for autonomous vehicles?
Nvidia and Uber Collaborate to launch Robotaxis by 2027The Partnership: A Deep Dive into Autonomous Vehicle technologyUber and Nvidia have announced a strategic collaboration aiming to deploy a new generation of robotaxis by 2027. This isn’t just a partnership; it’s a notable leap forward in the race to commercialize fully autonomous vehicles. The core of this initiative revolves around Nvidia’s DRIVE Thor centralized compute platform, which will power Uber’s autonomous driving stack. This collaboration signifies a shift towards more powerful, integrated systems for self-driving cars, moving beyond the fragmented approach of the past. Key terms associated with this growth include autonomous vehicles, robotaxis, Nvidia DRIVE, Uber ATG (Advanced Technologies Group), and self-driving technology. Nvidia DRIVE thor: The Brains Behind the OperationNvidia DRIVE Thor is a system-on-a-chip (soc) designed specifically for autonomous driving. It boasts remarkable capabilities: * Processing Power: Capable of delivering over 2,000 TOPS (Tera Operations Per Second) of AI performance. This is crucial for handling the complex calculations required for real-time perception, planning, and control. * Centralized architecture: Thor consolidates multiple functions – perception, planning, and vehicle control – into a single platform, reducing complexity and improving efficiency. * redundancy & Safety: Built-in redundancy features enhance safety and reliability,essential for public-facing autonomous services like robotaxis. * Future-Proofing: Designed to be upgradeable via over-the-air (OTA) updates, ensuring the system can adapt to evolving AI algorithms and software. This represents a major advancement over previous generations of autonomous driving hardware, offering a more scalable and robust solution for Level 4 autonomy and beyond. Related keywords include AI computing, automotive chips, sensor fusion, and autonomous systems. Uber’s Role: Scaling Deployment and Operational expertiseWhile Nvidia provides the technological horsepower,Uber brings its expertise in scaling ride-sharing services and managing large fleets. Uber’s contributions include:
This synergy between Nvidia’s hardware and Uber’s operational capabilities is a key factor in the projected 2027 launch date. Consider terms like fleet operations, ride-sharing platforms, autonomous fleet management, and mobility-as-a-service (MaaS). The 2027 Timeline: Key Milestones and ChallengesThe 2027 target is enterprising, and several milestones need to be achieved: * 2025-2026: Continued software development and integration of Uber’s autonomous driving stack with the Nvidia DRIVE Thor platform. Extensive simulation testing and closed-course validation. * 2026-2027: Limited pilot programs in select cities, focusing on geofenced areas with favorable regulatory environments. Rigorous safety testing and data collection. * 2027 Onward: Gradual expansion of robotaxi services to more cities, contingent on regulatory approvals and public acceptance. Challenges remain,including: * Regulatory Hurdles: Obtaining regulatory approval for fully autonomous vehicles varies significantly by location. * Public Perception: Building public trust in the safety and reliability of robotaxis is crucial for widespread adoption. * Weather Conditions: Ensuring reliable operation in adverse weather conditions (snow, rain, fog) remains a significant technical challenge. * Edge Cases: Handling unpredictable events and “edge cases” that are not encountered during typical driving scenarios. Keywords to consider: autonomous vehicle regulation, AV safety, robotaxi deployment, geofencing, and autonomous driving challenges. Benefits of Nvidia-Uber Robotaxis: Transforming urban TransportationThe accomplished deployment of robotaxis promises a range of benefits: * Reduced Traffic Congestion: Optimized routing and platooning capabilities can improve traffic flow and reduce congestion. * Lower Transportation Costs: Eliminating the need for human drivers can significantly reduce the cost of transportation. * Increased Accessibility: Robotaxis can provide transportation options for individuals who are unable to drive themselves, such as the elderly or disabled. * Improved Safety: Autonomous systems are not susceptible to human errors such as distracted driving or fatigue. * Environmental benefits: Electric robotaxis can reduce greenhouse gas emissions and improve air quality. These benefits position robotaxis as a key component of future smart cities and lasting transportation systems. Relevant search terms include smart cities, sustainable transportation, electric vehicles (evs), and urban mobility. Real-World Implications and Competitive LandscapeThis collaboration intensifies the competition in the autonomous vehicle space. Other key players include: * **Waymo (Alphabet): 
Tesla Robotaxi Approved for Testing in Henderson, Nevada: A New Era of Autonomous Mobility DawnsThe future of transportation is accelerating. In a significant development for autonomous vehicle technology, Tesla has received official registration to begin testing its Robotaxi service in Henderson, Nevada. This marks the third state to greenlight road tests, signaling a clear push towards wider deployment of self-driving capabilities and sending ripples through the tech and automotive industries. This is breaking news with major implications for the future of how we move. Expanding the Testing Ground: From Arizona to NevadaWhile Tesla’s Robotaxi service is already operational in limited capacities in Austin, Texas, and the Bay Area, California, the addition of Nevada represents a strategic expansion of its testing network. Recent sightings in Tempe, Arizona, reveal vehicles equipped with LiDAR technology – a crucial component used to validate the data collected by Tesla’s camera-based driving system. This emphasis on data verification underscores Tesla’s commitment to prioritizing safety before scaling its autonomous services. The company isn’t rushing; it’s meticulously building a foundation of reliability. (Image: Placeholder – A Tesla Robotaxi undergoing testing.) Different Approaches, One Goal: Full AutonomyThe operational models in Texas and California currently differ. In Texas, safety drivers can even occupy the passenger seat, allowing for a greater degree of autonomous control. San Francisco, however, still requires a driver at the wheel for every trip. Elon Musk has publicly stated his ambition to eliminate the need for safety drivers entirely by the end of the year – a bold move that raises important questions about public perception and trust. Will passengers readily embrace a ride without a human safety net? The Robotaxi app for iOS is already accepting registrations for a waiting list, hinting at a forthcoming expansion of user access. Beyond Testing: The Evolution of Tesla’s FSDThis push for Robotaxi deployment isn’t happening in a vacuum. Recent updates to Tesla’s Full Self-Driving (FSD) system are introducing intelligent notifications designed to enhance driver safety. These alerts proactively suggest activating the autopilot system when signs of driver fatigue or distraction are detected – deviations from lane positioning or indications of drowsiness, for example. Every detail is being refined to facilitate a smooth transition towards complete autonomy. Musk has described the upcoming V14 update as the “most surprising ever made,” promising an almost “sentient” driving experience. This isn’t just about technology; it’s about building confidence. The Road Ahead: Expansion and the Future of TransportationTesla’s ambitions extend beyond its current testing grounds. Targeted job postings suggest planned expansion into states like Florida and New York, indicating a well-defined roadmap for nationwide deployment. The company’s relentless pace of innovation, driven by Elon Musk’s vision, shows no signs of slowing down. But the speed of progress also necessitates careful consideration of regulatory frameworks and public acceptance. The long-term implications are profound: a potential reshaping of urban landscapes, a reduction in traffic accidents, and a fundamental shift in how we perceive personal transportation. This isn’t just about a car; it’s about reimagining mobility itself. The approval in Henderson, Nevada, isn’t just a milestone for Tesla; it’s a signal to the world that autonomous driving is moving from the realm of science fiction to a tangible reality. As Tesla continues to refine its technology and navigate the complexities of regulation and public perception, the future of transportation is being written – one autonomous mile at a time. Stay tuned to archyde.com for continued coverage of this rapidly evolving story and in-depth analysis of the future of autonomous vehicles. 
Zoox launches driverless Ride-Hailing in Las vegas, Challenging Waymo and TeslaTable of Contents
Las Vegas, nevada – Amazon’s autonomous vehicle unit, Zoox, has begun offering free rides to the public using its purpose-built, driverless robotaxis. The initial rollout, launched today, focuses on select locations throughout the city, marking a notable step in the company’s journey toward commercial viability. this development directly challenges established players like Waymo and Tesla in the rapidly evolving autonomous transportation landscape. A New Era of Robotaxis BeginsA limited fleet of several dozen Zoox vehicles are currently navigating designated routes, transporting passengers from five key locations including Resorts World Las Vegas, the Area 51 entertainment complex, and Top golf. Individuals can access the service by downloading the Zoox mobile application. Although currently offered at no charge, this initial phase is designed for data collection and service refinement before a full-scale commercial launch. Jesse levinson, Zoox’s Chief Technology Officer and co-founder, explained that this initial phase is primarily focused on learning and expansion. Plans are underway to broaden the operational area within Las Vegas in the coming months, evolving into a more flexible and extensive ride-hailing service. Aisha Evans, Zoox’s chief Executive Officer, emphasized the importance of these early learnings for future scalability and profitability. Zoox vs. The CompetitionUnlike Tesla’s recent robotaxi pilot program, which still incorporates human safety technicians, Zoox is deploying fully autonomous vehicles. This approach positions Zoox more directly as a technological rival to Waymo, which currently operates commercial services in five major metropolitan areas and is planning further expansions. Zoox’s vehicle itself is a key differentiator – a custom-designed, four-passenger vehicle resembling a compact van with sliding doors. The Zoox robotaxi boasts an notable suite of sensors, including eight laser lidars, ten radar units, eighteen cameras, eight microphones designed to detect emergency vehicle sirens, and four thermal cameras for enhanced perception in challenging conditions. This contrasts with Tesla’s primarily camera-based system, which relies on eight cameras.
production and ExpansionZoox commenced production of its robotaxis at a 220,000-square-foot facility in Hayward, California, at the end of 2024. The company is ramping up its fleet, currently consisting of approximately 50 vehicles operating in california and Nevada, with plans to expand to hundreds and eventually thousands over the next several years.Waymo also maintains a robotaxi factory, but focuses on retrofitting existing vehicles such as Jaguar IPACE SUVs and Zeekr microvans with its autonomous technology. The company received a crucial regulatory boost with a waiver from the Trump administration, enabling it to deploy vehicles lacking traditional controls like steering wheels and side mirrors. Evans highlighted the broader importance of this approval, stating, “Its good for the AV industry and it’s good for the nation.” Zoox is also preparing to launch a similar public trial in San Francisco before the end of the year. The Future of Autonomous VehiclesThe autonomous vehicle industry represents a potentially transformative shift in transportation, promising increased safety, efficiency, and accessibility. However, significant challenges remain, including technological hurdles, regulatory uncertainties, and public acceptance. According to a recent report by Statista, the global autonomous vehicle market is projected to reach $657.60 billion by 2030. Success will hinge on continued innovation,rigorous testing,and collaboration between industry leaders and policymakers. Did You Know? The Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) defines six levels of driving automation, ranging from 0 (no automation) to 5 (full automation). Zoox and Waymo are both aiming for Level 4 and 5 autonomy.
Pro tip: Investing in robust sensor redundancy is crucial for ensuring the safety and reliability of autonomous vehicles.
Frequently Asked Questions About Zoox Robotaxis
Will Zoox successfully navigate the complexities of the autonomous vehicle market and become a dominant player? What impact will widespread robotaxi adoption have on urban transportation systems? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
How might the unique, purpose-built design of Zoox vehicles impact the overall passenger experience compared to retrofitted AVs?
Waymo Faces New Botaxi competition as Amazon’s Zoox launches Services in Las VegasThe Rise of Robotaxis: A Two-Horse Race?The autonomous vehicle (AV) landscape is heating up, and the battle for dominance in the botaxi market is intensifying. For a while, Waymo, backed by Alphabet (Google’s parent company), largely held the field. However, Amazon’s Zoox has officially launched its commercial robotaxi service in Las Vegas, marking a important turning point and introducing serious competition. This development signals a potential shift in the future of urban transportation,and consumers are the ones who stand to benefit from increased innovation and perhaps lower costs. Zoox’s Entry: What Sets it Apart?Zoox isn’t simply another AV company. From the outset, it designed its vehicle specifically for autonomous operation, rather than retrofitting existing car models. This purpose-built approach has resulted in a unique, bi-directional vehicle optimized for passenger comfort and safety in an autonomous ride-hailing habitat. Here’s a breakdown of key Zoox features: Purpose-Built Design: The Zoox vehicle is designed from the ground up for autonomous driving, maximizing interior space and passenger experience. Bi-Directional Capability: It can drive in either direction, eliminating the need for complex turning maneuvers in tight spaces. Safety Redundancy: Zoox emphasizes multiple layers of safety,including redundant steering,braking,and computing systems. Passenger Experience: Features include cozy seating, ample legroom, and integrated entertainment systems. This contrasts with Waymo’s strategy of utilizing modified Chrysler Pacifica minivans and Jaguar I-PACEs for its driverless taxi service. While Waymo has accumulated significant real-world driving data, Zoox’s dedicated design could offer advantages in scalability and cost-effectiveness. Waymo’s Current Standing and expansionWaymo has been operating a limited commercial robotaxi service in the Phoenix, Arizona area for several years, and recently expanded to San Francisco and Los Angeles. They’ve logged millions of miles in autonomous testing and have a strong track record of safety.However, expansion hasn’t been without challenges. Regulatory Hurdles: Obtaining permits and navigating local regulations remains a significant obstacle for both companies. Public Perception: Building public trust in self-driving cars is crucial for widespread adoption. Incidents, like the 2018 accident in Mountain View, California (where the human driver was operating the vehicle, not the autonomous system – https://sgforum.impress.co.jp/news/4700), highlight the importance of transparency and continuous betterment. Scalability: Scaling up operations to meet demand while maintaining safety and reliability is a complex undertaking. Waymo continues to refine its technology and expand its geographic footprint, but Zoox’s arrival adds a new layer of competitive pressure. Las Vegas: The Ideal Testing Ground for Autonomous VehiclesLas Vegas presents a notably attractive environment for autonomous vehicle deployment for several reasons: Favorable Regulations: Nevada has historically been proactive in supporting AV testing and deployment. Predictable Road Conditions: The city’s grid-like street layout and relatively predictable traffic patterns simplify the challenges of autonomous navigation. High Demand for Transportation: Las Vegas is a major tourist destination with a constant need for efficient and affordable transportation options. Limited Public Transportation: The city’s public transportation system is less developed than in many other major metropolitan areas, creating a greater opportunity for robotaxis to fill a gap. The Economic Impact of RobotaxisThe widespread adoption of robotaxis could have a profound economic impact. Reduced Transportation Costs: Autonomous ride-sharing has the potential to significantly lower the cost of transportation for consumers. Increased Productivity: Passengers can utilize travel time for work or leisure, boosting overall productivity. Job displacement: the rise of robotaxis could lead to job losses for professional drivers, requiring workforce retraining initiatives. new Business Opportunities: The AV industry will create new jobs in areas such as software development, hardware engineering, and fleet management. Future Outlook: What to Expect in the Botaxi WarsThe competition between Waymo and Zoox is likely to intensify in the coming years. Expect to see: Newer Posts Adblock Detected
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