Zoox Opens Robotaxi Production Facility

Zoox Launches First Production Facility for Robotaxis

Zoox, the autonomous vehicle company owned by Amazon, has inaugurated its inaugural, fully operational production plant. The facility is projected to eventually manufacture up to 10,000 robotaxis annually.

Transitioning from Development to Production

This new facility signifies a pivotal advancement in Zoox’s progression beyond the research and development stages. Currently, the company is conducting vehicle trials across several cities within the United States.

Early access rides are already being provided to select participants in Las Vegas. This initial rider program is scheduled for expansion to San Francisco later in the year.

Furthermore, Zoox intends to initiate commercially available public rides in Las Vegas within the current year.

Facility Details and Location

The 220,000-square-foot factory is strategically located in Hayward, California, in close proximity to Zoox’s primary headquarters in Foster City.

This represents the company’s second production site within the Bay Area, complementing the existing assembly warehouse situated in Fremont.

Operational Capabilities

Zoox states that the new factory will encompass a range of functions, including engineering, the integration of software and hardware, assembly processes, storage solutions, and rigorous testing procedures.

The Hayward facility will be responsible for assembling the specifically designed Zoox robotaxis, catering to various commercial markets.

Initial deployment will focus on Las Vegas and San Francisco, with planned expansions to Austin and Miami within the coming years.

Adaptability and Automation

The facility’s design incorporates a “unique layout and building equipment” intended to accommodate evolving vehicle designs as Zoox’s robotaxi fleet expands.

Operations will be a collaborative effort between human personnel and robotic systems.

While human workers will perform the majority of tasks, robots will be utilized for specialized functions, such as applying adhesives during glass installation and facilitating the movement of robotaxis along the assembly line.

Correction

A previous version of this article contained inaccuracies regarding the status of Zoox’s early-rider program and commercial operations. The information has been updated to accurately reflect the program’s current implementation in Las Vegas and the anticipated launch of paid rides this year.