Zoox pauses Atlanta AV tests after workers report suspected toxic gas exposure

The suspension follows weeks of illness reports in modified SUVs and an OSHA inquiry that is now closed.

Zoox has suspended operation of its autonomous test fleet in Atlanta after dozens of safety drivers and contractors reported symptoms consistent with exposure to toxic gases inside modified Toyota Highlander test vehicles. An OSHA complaint from a contractor triggered a federal inquiry, during which Zoox identified six vehicles with unexplained odors and 28 employees who had ridden in them, ultimately reporting only one confirmed CO2 exposure. Workers described vomiting, strange smells and at least one 911 call, and say they were initially sent back out in different cars the same day, raising process and culture questions for a company rapidly expanding AV testing to new cities. Zoox told OSHA it inspected exhaust systems, smoke‑tested for cabin leaks, replaced all 12‑volt batteries, and says the only gas it has detected in affected vehicles so far is CO2, with plans to add in‑vehicle CO2 monitors. The Atlanta test cars remain quarantined and operations there are paused, while Zoox’s purpose‑built electric robotaxis are not affected and OSHA has closed its initial inquiry.