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Zoox Accelerates Robotaxi Production to 100 Units a Week

Wall Street Journal US Business •
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Amazon‑owned Zoox revealed a redesigned robotaxi ready for mass production. The new model preserves its signature carriage‑style cabin while updating the interior with a lighter color palette, padded seats, and ergonomic headrests to create a calmer ride. Exterior tweaks trim weight and improve aerodynamics, according to company engineers. The change aims to boost comfort and appeal to first‑time riders.

Production will begin at Zoox’s Hayward, Calif. facility, where the company plans to ramp output to 100 vehicles a week once regulatory approval is secured. Zoox expects the new robotaxi to reach riders later this year, positioning it ahead of competitors like Waymo and Cruise. The company also aims to leverage its existing software stack to reduce time‑to‑market.

Scaling production signals Zoox’s confidence that autonomous taxis can capture a sizable share of urban mobility. By delivering 100 units a week, the company could quickly populate city fleets, reducing operating costs and increasing ride availability. The shift also underscores Amazon’s broader strategy to integrate autonomous vehicles into its logistics network, potentially reshaping last‑mile delivery economics.

The redesigned robotaxi also incorporates advanced driver‑assist sensors and a new battery pack that promises longer range, though Zoox did not disclose specific mileage. Industry analysts note that reaching mass‑production scale will test the company’s supply chain resilience and regulatory compliance, critical factors that could accelerate or stall the autonomous taxi rollout.