Zoox is getting closer to the full launch of its robotaxi service in San Francisco. Last month, the Amazon-owned company began allowing select riders to drive its toaster-sized, four-passenger vehicles for the first time. And today, Zoox is finally inviting members of its public waitlist, which it calls “Zoox Explorers,” to do just that.
The gradual launch of the company’s robotaxi service is notable, as Zoox is one of the few companies offering rides in a completely driverless, purpose-built autonomous vehicle that lacks a steering wheel, pedals, sideview mirrors or other controls typically associated with human-driven vehicles. And while its service in Las Vegas is limited to just a handful of pickup and dropoff locations, Zoox said its vehicles will offer more dynamic, “point-to-point” trips within its designated service area in San Francisco.
It sounds like the experience will be similar to Waymo: Customers are able to hail a ride anywhere within Zoox’s service area, which includes most of the SoMa, Mission, and Design District neighborhoods. As a point-to-point service, riders can choose their destination, enter a street address, leave a PIN, or select from a list of suggested points of interest. Walking directions to their final destination will be provided, if needed.
Zoox has a fleet of “about 50 robotaxis” in both San Francisco and Las Vegas, said spokeswoman Marisa Wiggum, who also declined to disclose the number of people on its waiting list. Interested customers can join the waitlist through the company’s app.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, the rides will be free, as Zoox is allowed to operate their vehicles for demonstration purposes only. Since the vehicles do not comply with federal safety requirements around traditional controls, Zoox had to obtain a waiver from the government for these demonstration rides. It’s unclear when the company will be allowed to start charging riders for trips.