Zoox Expands Robotaxi Ambitions to Dallas and Phoenix

Zoox is moving into two major Sun Belt markets. The autonomous vehicle company, owned by Amazon, has begun collecting detailed street data in Dallas and Phoenix, marking the first step toward deploying its robotaxis in those cities.

Workers are driving a fleet of Toyota Highlander SUVs equipped with sensors through the streets. This mapping process allows Zoox's software to learn the unique road layouts and conditions before the company begins testing its self-driving systems there. Following this phase, Zoox plans to eventually deploy its custom-built, steering-wheel-free robotaxis.

The expansion into Texas and Arizona represents a strategic shift. Zoox aims to gather data from these less-dense, sprawling metropolitan areas, which differ significantly from its current operational hubs like San Francisco and Las Vegas. Once live, Dallas and Phoenix will become the ninth and tenth U.S. cities in Zoox's portfolio.

Commercial deployment hinges on regulatory approvals. While the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration granted an exemption for public road demonstrations last year, Zoox still requires further federal exemptions to launch a paid service with its purpose-built vehicle. Local ride-hailing permits are also necessary.

Arizona has been a favored testing ground for the industry due to its regulatory environment and climate, famously hosting Waymo's first commercial service. To support the new operations, Zoox is establishing local depots and a command center in Scottsdale, which the company says will create hundreds of jobs. These centers manage remote vehicle assistance and rider support in real time.

To date, Zoox reports its vehicles have driven over one million autonomous miles and provided more than 300,000 rides in its early programs.

Source: TechCrunch