Amazon’s Zoox Gets Approval for Robotaxis
Amazon’s Zoox division has received the green light from U.S. regulators to start limited commercial operations of its unique robotaxis, which do not have steering wheels. This approval from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) represents a significant step for the self-driving vehicle industry.
The NHTSA announced on Thursday that Zoox can now charge passengers for rides. The initial launch will take place in Las Vegas, with plans to expand to other cities as the company meets various state regulations.
This exemption from specific federal requirements, which usually mandate human controls in vehicles, is crucial for companies like Zoox. They are building robotaxis from the ground up, instead of converting traditional cars designed before autonomous technology was in place.
Zoox’s vehicle features a unique design with two rows of inward-facing seats and can reach speeds of up to 75 miles per hour. Other companies such as Tesla and Waymo are also competing to push forward autonomous ride-hailing services in the country.
NHTSA Administrator Jonathan Morrison shared that Zoox can deploy up to 2,500 vehicles commercially in each of the next two years. Currently, Zoox is conducting tests in select areas of Las Vegas and San Francisco, but this approval will allow the company to start charging fares, pending local authorizations.
The NHTSA confirmed that they believe Zoox’s vehicle is as safe as any conventional vehicle that meets federal safety standards that are being waived. However, Zoox will not be able to sell these vehicles to the general public.
Morrison commented that the current systems in Zoox’s vehicle outperform traditional safety requirements, but the safety agency will keep a close eye on how the autonomous driving system functions.
As part of the granted exemption, Zoox must report any issues, such as accidents or unexpected stops, and the NHTSA plans to adapt its regulations based on the vehicles’ performance. Morrison stated that if safety concerns arise, the exemption could be revoked.
All remote operators managing these vehicles will need to be based in the U.S., and Zoox will also be required to publicly share maps to show where its robotaxis are operating.
Morrison also mentioned that the NHTSA aims to establish federal safety standards for automated driving systems by the end of the current administration. Additionally, changes are being explored for existing rules, which currently assume human drivers, such as those concerning brake pedals and mirrors.
Zoox’s recent approval marks the culmination of its long-term goal to launch its robotaxi service amid evolving regulations. Meanwhile, Tesla has begun producing its own Cybercab without human controls but has not yet detailed its plans for obtaining necessary regulatory approvals.
Regulators continue to work on updating rules to facilitate the growth of self-driving technology while ensuring public safety. However, there have been concerns about autonomous vehicles, including incidents of interfering with law enforcement and not properly responding to emergency situations.
After a recent warning from Morrison, Zoox recalled its fleet of 105 autonomous vehicles to upgrade their software due to issues with detecting heavy smoke during emergencies.
Morrison is scheduled to speak about the agency’s safety initiatives on Thursday at an industry event in San Diego.
