The future of transportation is rolling into San Francisco, and it’s looking sleek, autonomous, and completely wheel-less. Amazon-owned Zoox is preparing to launch its first public robotaxi service, offering Bay Area residents a peek into a transportation revolution that’s been years in the making.

Starting this month, select participants from Zoox’s waiting list will be invited to experience their custom-built, steering wheel-free vehicles through the Zoox Explorer program. Initially, rides will be free and confined to the SoMA, Mission, and Design districts, marking a significant milestone for the Foster City-based company.

These aren’t your typical self-driving vehicles. Zoox’s robotaxis are purpose-built autonomous machines designed from the ground up, without traditional driving controls. Each vehicle represents a radical reimagining of personal transportation, capable of traveling up to 75 miles per hour and designed to operate without human intervention.

The launch comes after years of testing and development. Zoox has been navigating San Francisco’s complex streets since 2017, gradually refining its autonomous technology. While the current service area is relatively small compared to competitors like Waymo, it represents a critical step toward widespread autonomous ride-sharing.

However, Zoox still faces regulatory hurdles. The company must secure permits from the California Public Utilities Commission and receive expanded federal approval to eventually charge for rides. An initial exemption from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration already allows free demonstrations of their unique vehicles.

Zoox CEO Aicha Evans emphasized the company’s commitment to San Francisco, describing the city as a hub of innovation perfectly suited for pioneering autonomous transportation. As the robotaxi program expands, residents can expect more extensive service coverage and potentially lower transportation costs.

This initial launch isn’t just about offering rides, it’s about reshaping how we think about urban mobility. Zoox’s vision represents a bold step toward a future where transportation is safer, more efficient, and dramatically different from what we know today.