Zoox has officially launched its autonomous ride-hailing service to the public in Las Vegas, making it the first company to provide rides in a purpose-built, fully autonomous robotaxi.
The service began on September 10 and is initially available on and around the Las Vegas Strip. Rides are free during the launch phase and can be booked through the Zoox app on iOS and Android devices.
Aicha Evans, CEO of Zoox, says: “The autonomous vehicle industry has made remarkable strides this year, bringing us closer to a future of safer, more accessible mobility.
“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.”
Riders can select destinations such as Resorts World Las Vegas, Area15, and Topgolf, with more locations expected to be added in the coming months.
Dedicated pickup zones have been created at partner locations, and Zoox concierges will assist first-time riders with onboarding and support. The app provides estimated pickup times, arrival updates, license plate identification, and post-ride feedback options.
Zoox said the free rides will help familiarize the public with the service before it transitions to paid trips, pending regulatory approval. A waitlist has also opened for San Francisco, though a launch date has not been announced.
Jesse Levinson, co-founder and CTO of Zoox, says: “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.
“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.”
Zoox developed its robotaxi from the ground up rather than retrofitting existing vehicles, a decision the company said was central to its long-term strategy. The launch follows more than a decade of research, testing, and regulatory preparation.
