Amazon's Zoox secures US approval for steering-wheel-free robotaxis

Amazon's self-driving unit Zoox received federal approval to deploy up to 2,500 steering-wheel-free robotaxis annually, a first for the autonomous-vehicle industry. NHTSA granted an exemption from human-control requirements, allowing Zoox to begin charging riders in Las Vegas once state and local permits are secured. The rollout will be staggered, with no immediate public sales. Critics cite safety concerns, following a recall of 105 vehicles.