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Zoox Opens Free, Invite-Only Robotaxi Rides in San Francisco

The rides remain free pending state and federal approvals for commercial service.

Overview

  • Access starts for waitlist members in the Zoox Explorer program within SoMa, the Mission and the Design District.
  • Rides are requested in the Zoox app using purpose-built, gondola-style vehicles that have no steering wheel or pedals.
  • Zoox now runs about 50 robotaxis across San Francisco and Las Vegas after launching a free service on the Strip in September.
  • An August NHTSA exemption permits public demonstrations only, and Zoox still needs CPUC approval and an expanded federal waiver to charge fares.
  • Backed by Amazon, Zoox is scaling production at a Hayward plant and is eyeing future launches in cities like Austin and Miami as it positions against Waymo.