TL;DRAmazon’s Zoox upgraded its robotaxi interior and exterior based on rider feedback as it awaits NHTSA approval for paid commercial rides.
Amazon’s Zoox revealed a series of design upgrades to its custom-built robotaxi on Wednesday, refining the interior comfort and exterior communication of a vehicle that still lacks a steering wheel, pedals, or any traditional driver controls. The changes are based on rider feedback from the company’s free ride programme and are timed to coincide with the ramp-up of volume production at its Hayward, California factory.
The core vehicle remains unchanged: a cube-shaped, bidirectional electric pod with four-wheel steering, 40 cameras, radars, lidars, and infrared sensors, capable of carrying four passengers at up to 75 miles per hour. What Zoox has updated is everything a rider actually touches.
Inside, the company added more padding and ergonomic curves to seats and headrests, and switched to a lighter colour palette of aloe green seating with stone grey flooring and trim. Zoox says the lighter interior creates a calmer environment and also provides contrast that makes it easier to spot personal items like phones left behind. Other tweaks include fluting on the wireless charging pad to keep devices in place, larger cupholders, and a more visible touchscreen.
