Self-driving cars designed by Waymo, a subsidiary of Google's parent company, Alphabet, have problems understanding the basic rules of the road, according to a new report.

The Chrysler Pacifica minivans are currently being tested in the suburban town of Chandler in Arizona under the watchful eye of safety drivers.

However, locals have become increasingly frustrated by their presence, the Information claims. The cars reportedly have difficulty turning left on fast-moving roads and have a habit of stopping at traffic signs for longer than necessary.

Locals also allege the vehicles brake suddenly, and have trouble merging into heavy traffic. They say the cars struggle with "basic" road features such as metered red and green lights that regulate the speed of cars.

The vehicles' safety drivers, who can take control of the cars in difficult situations, "regularly have to take control of the wheel to avoid a collision or potentially unsafe situation", according to an investigation by The Information, citing locals.