[ExI] jeff's ride

[spike at rainier66.com]

There are plenty of robotaxis being tested, but this one in Foster City
caught my attention because it is symmetrical front and back.

 

I found out the company is Zoox.  Jeff Bezos owns them now.  They make
perfect sense: they carry up to four proles, they go backward as well as
forward (there is no defined front or back.)  Having the front to back
symmetry means they achieve economy of scale in half the time without
dialing in much additional instrumentation cost.

 

Waymo was first, but the depreciation cost kills Waymo's savings from not
having a driver.  These Zoox cars have a lower up front cost and might be
cheaper to clean (pressure wash inside?)

 

Having symmetry means the steering mechanisms are simpler: both front and
rear wheels steer.  That would mean half the required steer angle which
simplifies a lotta stuff mechanically and means you don't need a
differential as rear-wheel-drive cars have.

 

Lower initial cost means more of them can be left parked, or can troll
around picking up and dropping off passengers.  This is cool!

 

 



 

My prediction: Amazon will beat Waymo eventually.

 

spike

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