The U.S. Department of Transportation is seeking public and industry comment on a petition from Zoox, the autonomous vehicle company, to operate fully driverless robotaxis without traditional steering wheels or pedals.
Zoox’s proposal aims to allow its vehicles to function entirely without human intervention, relying on advanced sensors, software, and artificial intelligence to navigate streets safely. The company argues that removing manual controls can improve safety, vehicle design, and passenger experience by reducing the risk of human error.
The federal agency said it is reviewing the petition under existing safety and motor vehicle regulations and is inviting stakeholders including industry experts, safety advocates, and the general public to provide feedback on the proposal. The comments will help regulators determine whether new rules or exemptions are appropriate to allow such vehicles on public roads.
Autonomous vehicles have been deployed in limited pilot programs in several U.S. cities, but most still include conventional controls for safety drivers. Zoox’s petition represents a step toward fully driverless urban mobility without traditional human overrides, a development that could reshape the future of ridehailing and urban transport.
Safety, liability, and cybersecurity remain key concerns for regulators, who will weigh whether the company’s technology meets rigorous standards before granting approval. Public feedback is expected to play an important role in shaping how these vehicles are regulated nationwide.
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