A report by US federal inspectors has found that an Amazon-backed self-driving taxi, operated by Zoox, fails to meet basic vehicle safety standards due to missing features such as a brake pedal and rearview mirrors. The findings have raised questions about the industry’s plans to deploy autonomous vehicles on US roads.
Zoox has been operating a small pilot fleet in California and Nevada, with plans to launch public service in Las Vegas this year. Tesla, another company planning to build robotaxis without pedals and mirrors, has applied for permission to transport nonpaying customers in California.
NHTSA’s review of Zoox’s design found apparent noncompliances with eight federal standards, including windshield wipers and defoggers. However, experts note that the vehicle’s computerized driver does not rely on these features, which may reduce safety concerns. The agency is still considering all options for potential recall.
The report highlights NHTSA’s struggle to keep up with rapidly evolving technology. Industry groups have called for reinterpretation of rules to allow autonomous vehicles without traditional controls. Transportation Secretary Sean P. Duffy has stated that creating a path for more autonomous vehicles on the road is a priority.
State regulators are reviewing the findings, which could impact Zoox’s ability to test in California. The uncertainty surrounding robotaxi regulations complicates the industry’s plans to deploy self-driving vehicles on public roads.
Source: https://www.washingtonpost.com/business/2025/03/11/zoox-autonomous-nhtsa-safety