Zoox has requested an exemption from federal regulators that would permit the Amazon-owned autonomous vehicle company to deploy its custom-built robotaxis for commercial use. These unique vehicles are designed without traditional controls like pedals or a steering wheel.
A Zoox spokesperson confirmed the company submitted a petition for a “555 exemption” and is working closely with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration through this process. A NHTSA spokesperson stated that Zoox applied for a temporary exemption from eight Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards that apply to its passenger car equipped with an automated driving system. NHTSA is currently reviewing the application and will publish a notice to seek public comment after its initial review.
This request follows two significant milestones that bring Zoox closer to operating a commercial robotaxi service. Earlier this month, the company launched a free public robotaxi service in Las Vegas. Then in August, NHTSA granted Zoox an exemption to demonstrate its custom-built robotaxis on public roads.
While the August exemption resolved a longstanding question about whether Zoox’s vehicles complied with federal safety standards, it only covered research and demonstrations. This new application is separate and aims to broaden the scope, paving the way for Zoox to launch a full commercial service. The August exemption was part of NHTSA’s expanded Automated Vehicle Exemption Program, which allows for the demonstration of such vehicles on public roads.