Transportation

Zoox has launched free public robotaxi rides in Las Vegas

Ken Metral

10 Sep 2025 — 2 min read

Credit: Zoox, Inc.

Amazon-owned Zoox has officially opened its futuristic robotaxi rides to the public in Las Vegas — and for now, they’re free.

The company, which has been developing its custom-built autonomous vehicles for more than six years, announced Wednesday that anyone over 18 can now hail one of its driverless cars using the Zoox app on iOS or Android. Unlike retrofitted self-driving cars, Zoox’s robotaxis are built from the ground up without steering wheels or pedals, designed specifically for autonomous transport.

From Testing to Public Rides

Zoox began road-testing its cube-like electric shuttles in Las Vegas in 2023, starting with a one-mile loop around its southwest facilities. Over time, the service expanded to cover the Strip and nearby streets. Earlier this year, Zoox quietly launched its “Explorer” program — a limited pilot for early riders. Wednesday’s announcement marks the first time the rides are open to the broader public.

Where You Can Ride

The robotaxi service currently operates at five designated pickup and drop-off points along the Las Vegas Strip, including Resorts World Las Vegas, AREA15, Topgolf, New York-New York, and Luxor. A Zoox spokesperson said additional destinations will be added in the coming months.

While convenient, riders can’t yet request door-to-door pickups. Instead, Zoox is relying on set hubs, similar to how early ride-hailing pilots like Uber and Lyft operated when first launching new features.

Why Rides Are Still Free

Zoox has not disclosed how long the complimentary rides will last. The company noted it must first secure “regulatory approval” before charging passengers. The requirement is tied to an exemption Zoox received last month from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). That exemption allows the company to demonstrate its steering-wheel-free robotaxis on public roads, but not operate them commercially just yet.

The regulatory green light resolved a long-standing debate over whether Zoox’s unconventional vehicle design could meet federal safety standards. But until further approvals are granted, revenue service remains off the table.

What’s Next for Zoox

While Las Vegas is the first city where Zoox has gone public, it won’t be the last. The company is already testing its vehicles in San Francisco and has opened a waitlist for local residents interested in early access to the service.

Backed by Amazon, Zoox aims to position itself as a leader in the autonomous mobility race, competing against players like Cruise and Waymo, both of which have faced their own regulatory and operational hurdles.

For now, visitors to Las Vegas can experience what the future of urban transport might feel like — at least until regulators decide whether that future can be monetized.

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