Zoox Redesigns Steering-Wheel-Free Robotaxi After 500,000 Riders as It Seeks U.S. Approval
Updated
Updated · Fox News · Jul 3
Zoox Redesigns Steering-Wheel-Free Robotaxi After 500,000 Riders as It Seeks U.S. Approval
3 articles · Updated · Fox News · Jul 3
Summary
Zoox unveiled a production-intent robotaxi with padded seats, larger cupholders, a steadier wireless charging pad and a clearer touchscreen, aiming to make its driverless rides more comfortable and easier to use.
500,000 riders' feedback and early deployments drove the redesign, while the core vehicle remains unchanged: no steering wheel or pedals, four facing seats, bidirectional driving and speeds up to 75 mph.
Exterior updates target safety and communication, with repositioned bidirectional reflectors to show travel direction and new two-way audio at the door interface for riders, support staff and first responders.
NHTSA approval remains the key hurdle because Zoox has petitioned for temporary exemptions from 8 federal vehicle safety standards before broader commercial deployment.
Zoox is already operating in Las Vegas and San Francisco, with Austin and Miami queued next, as robotaxi competition shifts from proving autonomy to delivering a ride people will actually want to repeat.