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Zoox, an autonomous vehicle company, has submitted a voluntary software recall notice to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). This decision follows an internal review of a minor incident involving one of its robotaxis and an e-scooterist in San Francisco, California, on May 8, 2025. The company has emphasized its commitment to transparency and safety in its operations.
Key Highlights:
- Zoox voluntarily recalled software after a minor incident.
- An unoccupied robotaxi was struck by an e-scooterist.
- No further contact occurred after the initial incident.
- A software update has been deployed to all affected vehicles.
- The recall aims to improve perception tracking near vulnerable road users.
- Zoox stresses that autonomous vehicle recalls often involve software updates, not physical returns.
On May 8, 2025, an unoccupied Zoox robotaxi, while making a low-speed turn and yielding the right-of-way in San Francisco, was struck by an individual on an e-scooter. The robotaxi was stationary at the moment of impact. The e-scooterist fell beside the vehicle. Subsequently, the robotaxi moved to complete its turn, stopping without making further contact with the individual. Zoox operations personnel promptly attended the scene, offering assistance and exchanging information. The e-scooterist reported minor injuries but declined medical attention.
Zoox has stated that it takes any incident involving other road users seriously. Following the event, the company shared information and video footage with regulators as part of its safety review and reporting procedures. The internal review determined that the robotaxi operated as expected when the collision occurred. Despite this, Zoox proactively issued the voluntary software recall to enhance its system’s perception tracking capabilities and further prevent vehicle movement when a vulnerable road user is in very close proximity. The updated software has already been implemented across its fleet operating on public roads.
The company clarified the nature of “recalls” in the autonomous vehicle sector. Unlike traditional vehicle recalls that typically require a physical return to a dealership for repair, recalls for autonomous vehicles often pertain to software updates designed to improve vehicle behavior. Because Zoox owns and operates its fleet, these updates can be deployed rapidly across all vehicles.
By submitting this voluntary recall notice, Zoox aims to demonstrate a transparent and responsible approach to the development and deployment of autonomous vehicle technology, contributing to the ongoing improvement of roadway safety. This practice allows for immediate and transparent enhancements, fostering a safer driving environment for everyone.
Zoox reiterated its unwavering commitment to transparency and public safety. The company views autonomous vehicles as a transformative technology with the potential to enhance safety, increase mobility, and promote sustainability. Safety is described as a foundational principle for Zoox, which strives to provide the safest possible transportation experience. Further details on Zoox’s safety approach are available on its website.
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