Amazon's Robotaxis Pulled Back Following Near Incident | Carscoops

      A scooter rider collided with a robotaxi, which then nearly struck the scooterist.

      May 29, 2025, at 20:14

      by Michael Gauthier

      Zoox has recalled 270 robotaxis due to a software issue that may fail to identify individuals near the vehicle.

      This issue came to light after an e-scooterist hit the robotaxi and almost got hit themselves.

      The company intends to launch its robotaxi service to the public in Las Vegas later this year.

      Amazon's Zoox aims to transform transportation, yet several issues need resolution, as evidenced by a recent incident in San Francisco on May 8.

      According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, an unoccupied robotaxi was stationary when it was struck by an e-scooterist. The individual fell beside the vehicle, which then began moving forward in autonomous mode.

      Fortunately, the robotaxi did not collide with the scooterist. However, they sustained minor injuries from the impact with the vehicle.

      Following this close call, Zoox suspended driverless operations and conducted an internal investigation. It was determined that the vehicle might not recognize vulnerable road users lying close to it when it is stopped, moving very slowly, or about to start moving. This means the software allowed the vehicle to advance as it detected no obstacles.

      This issue would only arise at speeds below 1.1 mph (0.5 m/s). Zoox has since rectified the problem with a software update, which has been validated through simulations and real-world testing. The update was deployed to all 270 robotaxis last week, and operations have recently resumed.

      Aside from this recall, Zoox has maintained a relatively low profile, but they released their first commercial in February. Prior to that, they expanded operations in Las Vegas and began service in San Francisco.

      While the company has been somewhat under the radar, they previously announced plans to offer their robotaxi services to the public in Las Vegas later this year. This initiative is part of an "early rider program," which will provide free rides to select individuals in exchange for their feedback.