Zoox, the autonomous vehicle subsidiary of Amazon, has officially opened its robotaxi service to the public in Las Vegas. This marks a significant milestone for the company, as its custom-built, all-electric, and fully autonomous vehicles—designed without steering wheels or pedals—are now available for public use.
A Journey of Innovation
Founded in 2014, Zoox has dedicated over a decade to developing its autonomous driving technology. The company unveiled its purpose-built robotaxis in 2020, showcasing a unique design tailored for urban mobility. These vehicles are engineered to navigate complex city environments, offering a glimpse into the future of transportation.
Testing and Expansion
Zoox began testing its robotaxis on public roads in Las Vegas in 2023. The initial phase involved a one-mile loop around the company’s local facilities. Over time, the testing area expanded to include the Las Vegas Strip and adjacent roads, allowing Zoox to refine its technology in diverse traffic conditions.
Public Access and Service Details
As of September 10, 2025, Zoox’s robotaxi service is accessible to the general public. Interested individuals can download the Zoox app on iOS and Android devices to request rides. Currently, the service operates free of charge, with designated pickup and drop-off points at five key Las Vegas locations:
– Resorts World Las Vegas
– AREA15
– Topgolf
– New York-New York Hotel & Casino
– Luxor Hotel & Casino
Zoox plans to expand the number of service destinations in the coming months, enhancing accessibility for users.
Regulatory Landscape
While the current rides are complimentary, Zoox requires regulatory approval to commence charging for its services. In August 2025, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) granted Zoox an exemption to demonstrate its custom-built robotaxis on public roads. This exemption addressed previous debates regarding the compliance of Zoox’s vehicles with federal motor vehicle safety standards, which traditionally mandate features like steering wheels and pedals. However, the exemption currently permits demonstration purposes only, not commercial operations.
Safety and Reliability
Zoox has prioritized safety throughout its development process. The company has conducted extensive testing to ensure its vehicles can handle various driving scenarios. In May 2025, Zoox issued a voluntary software recall following a collision involving one of its robotaxis and an e-scooter in San Francisco. The incident prompted the company to enhance its software systems to better predict and respond to the movements of other road users.
Future Prospects
The launch of Zoox’s public robotaxi service in Las Vegas represents a significant step toward the broader adoption of autonomous vehicles. As the company continues to refine its technology and expand its service areas, it aims to offer a reliable and efficient transportation alternative in urban settings.
