Amazon's Zoox Challenges Tesla's Robotaxi Dominance

Amazon's Zoox autonomous vehicle arm has cleared regulatory hurdles to operate as a self-driving taxi service in San Francisco and Las Vegas. The service, which allows passengers to pay for rides, marks a significant step forward for the company.

Zoox is not copying its rivals; instead, it was designed from the ground up with no steering wheel or pedals. This bespoke approach could prove decisive in the industry, where burning through cash is common and deep pockets are crucial.

Amazon's resources back this vision, with a balance sheet, manufacturing know-how, and logistics muscle that could give Zoox an edge. However, Zoox still has a long way to go before it can rival the leader, Alphabet's Waymo.