Zoox Pursues Federal Approval for Exemption to Launch Commercial Robotaxi Service

Zoox has applied for a federal exemption that would allow the Amazon-owned autonomous vehicle company to introduce its uniquely designed robotaxis, which lack conventional controls like pedals and a steering wheel.

Bloomberg was the first to report on this request for exemption. A Zoox spokesperson confirmed that the company has submitted a petition for a “555 exemption” and is actively working with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration during this new exemption process.

According to a representative from the NHTSA, Zoox has requested a temporary exemption from eight Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards pertinent to its passenger vehicle that is equipped with an automated driving system. The NHTSA is in the process of evaluating Zoox’s application and intends to publish a notice inviting public comments after its preliminary assessment.

This request follows two major milestones that bring Zoox closer to initiating a commercial robotaxi service.

Earlier this month, Zoox launched a complimentary robotaxi service for the public in Las Vegas. Additionally, in August, the NHTSA provided Zoox with an exemption to operate its custom-designed robotaxis on public roads.

While the August exemption addressed a long-standing issue regarding the adherence of Zoox’s custom-built autonomous vehicles to federal motor vehicle safety standards, it was initially restricted to research and demonstrations on public roads. This recent application is different, aiming to broaden operational capabilities and facilitate the launch of a commercial robotaxi service by Zoox.

The exemption granted by the NHTSA in August was part of the agency’s enhanced Automated Vehicle Exemption Program, which allows for the demonstration of vehicles on public roads.