Zoox has revamped its specially designed robotaxi — and it’s not just about enhancing its appearance. On Wednesday, the Amazon-owned firm announced a range of upgrades to the comfort and functionality of its electric, self-driving vehicle, driven by rider insights and in anticipation of a commercial rollout later this year.

The fundamental aspects of the Zoox robotaxi persist. This cube-shaped electric, autonomous vehicle still does not have a steering wheel or other controls. The moonroof and starry ceiling lights remain, along with 40 cameras, radar systems, lidar, and infrared sensors that allow the robotaxi to comprehend its surroundings. Additionally, the vehicle still operates bidirectionally, features four-wheel steering, and can carry four passengers at speeds of up to 75 miles per hour.

Instead, Zoox has implemented numerous design and product modifications necessary for a robotaxi that transports thousands of riders. At least, that’s what Zoox aspires to.

Internally, Zoox has incorporated extra cushioning and ergonomic designs into the seats and headrests, alongside a refreshed color scheme, materials, and finishes featuring a lighter aloe-green for seating and stone-grey for flooring and trims.

According to Zoox, this lighter color scheme fosters a more serene environment.

It also offers a contrasting background that facilitates the identification of common items, such as smartphones. Additional changes to the interior include adding fluting to the charging pad to secure phones, enlarging the cup holders, and improving the visibility of the touchscreen.

Externally, Zoox has repositioned its bidirectional reflectors for enhanced visibility and introduced a new speaker and microphone at the door interface, enabling two-way audio. The company stated that these enhancements will facilitate communication with passengers and other motorists, as well as between Zoox Support and emergency services.

The concept, according to Chris Stoffel, director of robot industrial design and studio engineering at Zoox, focuses on a streamlined interior design that doesn’t distract riders as many features in contemporary passenger vehicles do.

“The enhancements we’ve implemented in this version of our specifically designed robotaxi continue to set the Zoox experience apart from anything else currently available,” he stated.

There are also sensible motivations behind the design alterations.

Last year, Zoox launched a manufacturing facility in Hayward, California, where the company aims to eventually produce 10,000 robotaxis annually. These enhancements were developed in anticipation of mass production, which Zoox indicates could reach 100 vehicles weekly.

However, Zoox faces a significant obstacle before it can commence full-scale production — or provide paid rides.

The firm has sought a commercial exemption for its robotaxi since it lacks standard controls required by federal regulations. A public comment period has concluded, and Zoox is now awaiting a ruling from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, which granted the company an exemption in August 2025 to allow its custom-built robotaxis to be tested on public roads.

Should it gain approval, Zoox intends to start offering paid rides, the company stated.

Currently, the company is conducting tests and providing complimentary rides in Austin, Texas; San Francisco; Las Vegas; and Miami, Florida.