Nearly a year after opening its doors to the public in Las Vegas, Zoox is finally charging for those robotaxi rides. The Silicon Valley startup, acquired by Amazon in 2020, has spent six years developing a custom-built electric vehicle and self-driving technology. With federal safety regulators granting it an exemption from certain motor vehicle safety standards last week, Zoox can now charge fares based on distance and time traveled.

The fares will be calculated using the best route for the journey, with destination fees potentially included for trips to high-traffic areas like airports or events. However, in California, Zoox still needs two more permits before it can operate commercially there. The company hopes to match traditional ride-hail services in terms of comfort pricing.

Zoox's robotaxis have faced numerous challenges over the years, including funding and technical development, but now they're taking a step towards full commercial operations. This move marks an important milestone for autonomous vehicle technology as we know it today.