Overview
- Zoox began inviting waitlisted users in San Francisco to ride for free in its steering‑wheel‑free robotaxis within SoMa, the Mission and the Design District via its Explorers program.
- The early rides are permitted under an NHTSA research and demonstration exemption; Zoox still needs an expanded federal waiver and a CPUC permit to charge fares.
- San Francisco service offers point‑to‑point routing through the Zoox app, contrasting with fixed pickup spots in Las Vegas, and draws on a fleet of about 50 robotaxis across both cities.
- Zoox’s purpose‑built vehicles lack traditional controls and are produced from a new Hayward facility as the Amazon-owned company gathers rider feedback before wider rollout.
- On the same day, Waymo removed in‑car safety drivers for employee trips in Miami and plans similar operations in Dallas, Houston, San Antonio and Orlando ahead of public launches in 2026.