ZOOX releases another software to recall robots after collision in San Francisco

Amazon-owned Robotaxi Company Zoox released its second recall within a month after the collision in San Francisco. After an internal review of the incident, it has submitted a voluntary software recall notice to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and has deployed the software updates to a fleet of 270 vehicles. According to the company's announcement, a driverless Zoox Robotaxi hits an electric scooter after brakes at the intersection to give the right of way to other drivers.

The person on the scooter fell down and the robot continued to move, stopping only after completing the turn. Zoox's Robotaxi didn't hit the rider, but company staff met with them and provided medical care for minor injuries. The San Francisco incident occurred on May 8, and the company collided in Las Vegas shortly after the company announced a volunteer software recall.

Despite the recall, Zoox said its vehicle was stopped and did nothing special when it was hit. Still, it has introduced software updates to improve the perceived tracking capabilities of its vehicles and to prevent road users from moving forward again when they are in vulnerable nearby locations. Although Robotaxi has not had contact with the rider after falling on the bike, the company is likely to realize that it may have, which could lead to more serious accidents in the future. Zoox launched its self-driving car to be tested on the streets of San Francisco in late 2024. Currently only company employees can ride, but Zoox plans to start offering rides to the public later this year.