Zoox has launched its autonomous ride-hailing service on and around the Las Vegas Strip, with free rides available through the company’s app.
“The autonomous vehicle industry has made remarkable strides this year, bringing us closer to a future of safer, more accessible mobility,” said Aicha Evans, the CEO of Zoox. “With the launch of our fully driverless ride-hailing service using a purposefully designed robotaxi, we’re thrilled to be part of this groundbreaking journey. Las Vegas is a city famous for unforgettable moments, and it is the ideal location for our debut. Zoox is about transforming the entire ride-hailing experience, making every ride a delightful experience.”
After downloading the Zoox app, riders can select from several destinations, including Resorts World Las Vegas, AREA15, Topgolf and other resort and entertainment properties. The company said it will continue to add new destinations in the coming months.
At first, the service will be free as Zoox aims to familiarize users with the robotaxis and get feedback before it scales. Paid rides in Las Vegas will follow once the company receives regulatory approval. Zoox has also said riders can join the waitlist for the upcoming launch of its San Francisco service.
“Eleven years ago, we started on a journey to fundamentally rethink transportation. The idea for Zoox was never to make a car drive itself; it was about creating an entirely new mode of transportation,” said Jesse Levinson, co-founder and CTO of Zoox. “After more than a decade of research, innovation and testing, we’re incredibly excited to finally bring that vision to the public, starting in Las Vegas. Today’s launch of our service is only the beginning, and we look forward to scaling this safer, more enjoyable and truly personal way to travel within Las Vegas and across more US markets in the coming months and years.”
In related news, WeRide has expanded into Belgium with the launch of its Robobus in Leuven, following European launches in France, Switzerland and Spain