Zoox testing robotaxis in Dallas and Phoenix
Zoox has started testing its purpose-built autonomous robotaxis in Phoenix and Dallas, expanding its autonomous vehicle trials to 10 U.S. markets.
The rollout begins with retrofitted SUVs used to map roads and collect data, initially driven manually with safety drivers before switching to autonomous operation. After mapping and testing, the company plans to deploy its custom-built robotaxi, an all-electric vehicle designed specifically for ride-hailing rather than adapted from a conventional car.
Phoenix provides testing conditions such as extreme heat, dust, and high-speed roads, which help evaluate sensor and battery performance. Dallas offers complex road networks and varied weather, useful for refining the AI driving system. Zoox will also open local depots and a “Fusion Center” command hub in the region to manage fleet operations, software integration, and vehicle support. The testing aims to gather real-world data to improve autonomous driving before broader robotaxi deployment and potential ride-hailing integration.
The expansion into Phoenix and Dallas helps Zoox refine its robotics and AI systems in new environments as it prepares for larger-scale autonomous robotaxi services.
