Zoox Expands Autonomous Vehicle Mapping to Dallas and Phoenix, Paving Way for Robotaxi Deployment

Zoox, an Amazon-owned autonomous vehicle company, has initiated mapping operations in Dallas, Texas, and Phoenix, Arizona, to prepare for deploying its robotaxi services in these new markets. The company is using Toyota Highlander SUVs equipped with autonomous software to collect data and adapt its systems to the unique urban environments of these Sun Belt cities.

This expansion allows Zoox to gather diverse environmental data beyond its current focus on dense metropolitan areas like San Francisco and Las Vegas. After sufficient data collection, Zoox plans to transition from testing with modified SUVs to deploying its purpose-built robotaxis.

With the addition of Dallas and Phoenix, Zoox will operate in ten U.S. cities. To support these new markets, the company is opening depots and a command center in Scottsdale, Arizona. These "fusion centers" will manage fleet operations, remote guidance, and rider support.

Zoox is awaiting federal approval for its purpose-built autonomous vehicle, which lacks traditional controls. While some exemptions have been granted for public road demonstrations, further regulatory approvals are needed for commercial operations. Local agencies will also need to authorize ride-hailing services.

Having driven over one million autonomous miles and served more than 300,000 passengers, Zoox leverages significant experience as it expands. The company expects to create hundreds of jobs in Dallas and Phoenix, contributing to local economies.

Zoox’s expansion into Dallas and Phoenix highlights the growing momentum in autonomous vehicle deployment across varied urban landscapes. This move signals important progress toward the future of smart, driverless urban mobility.