Amazon’s Zoox Debuts Autonomous Robotaxis in Las Vegas
Amazon's autonomous vehicle unit Zoox has launched its first fleet of steering-wheel-free robotaxis on the Las Vegas Strip. The electric shuttles, designed without traditional driver controls, feature a bidirectional, boxy design with seating for four passengers. Initial rides remain free during the regulatory testing phase.
The NHTSA-granted exemption allows Zoox to operate vehicles diverging from federal safety standards, positioning it as the first U.S. company to deploy purpose-built autonomous taxis. However, the late market entry faces stiff competition from established players like Alphabet's Waymo in the rapidly evolving mobility sector.