NHTSA grants Zoox a conditional exemption for its automated vehicle

The U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has granted Zoox a temporary exemption allowing the company to manufacture and commercially deploy its purpose-built automated passenger vehicle despite differences from several federal motor vehicle safety standards. The exemption covers requirements involving windshield systems, lighting, rear visibility, braking, interior impact protection, glazing and occupant crash protection. NHTSA said its decision rests on a finding that the vehicle can provide an overall safety level at least equal to a vehicle complying with all applicable standards. The approval includes specific terms and enhanced federal oversight. NHTSA will issue operational authorizations that can be updated or expanded as the automated driving system develops, giving the regulator continuing control over the conditions under which the vehicle operates.