SEATTLE, WA - Amazon came in hot on the newswire this morning as it announced a landmark acquisition. Teaming up with the innovative tech company Zoox, the e-commerce giant announced its completion of the one-billion-dollar purchase.

"Zoox is working to imagine, invent, and design a world-class autonomous ride-hailing experience," said Jeff Wilke, Amazon’s CEO, Worldwide Consumer. "Like Amazon, Zoox is passionate about innovation and about its customers, and we're excited to help the talented Zoox team to bring their vision to reality in the years ahead."

First launched in 2014, Zoox designs zero-emissions vehicles created for autonomous ride-hailing services. According to a company release, the software expert aims to provide a revolutionary customer experience while being kind to the earth.

Although extensive terms of Amazon’s plans were not disclosed, we expect that Zoox's innovative technology will further support the e-tail giant's grocery business—whether that means innovating its logistics network for grocery delivery or bolstering its cashierless grocery store network.

"This acquisition solidifies Zoox's impact on the autonomous driving industry," said Aicha Evans, CEO of Zoox. "We have made great strides with our purpose-built approach to safe, autonomous mobility, and our exceptionally talented team working every day to realize that vision. We now have an even greater opportunity to realize a fully autonomous future."

Jesse Levinson, Zoox Co-Founder and CTO, added, "Since Zoox's inception six years ago, we have been singularly focused on our ground-up approach to autonomous mobility. Amazon's support will markedly accelerate our path to delivering safe, clean, and enjoyable transportation to the world."

Evans and Levinson will continue to lead Zoox as Amazon works to integrate its innovative technology.

Autonomous technology continues to be an illusive area of potential for crucial operations from the farm to the consumer. Curious as to how this will impact Amazon’s fresh-forward presence? AndNowUKnow will keep you up to date as we investigate.

Amazon