Zoox, Amazon's robotaxi service, begins operating in Las Vegas

We know that autonomous driving technology is advancing by leaps and bounds, but it is still quite green. Even so, there are companies determined to get cars to move freely and without the need for a human driver. But that is still far off, at least in general terms. However, the robotaxi service is already something that can be interesting in certain situations.

The legislation makes it difficult to operate this type of vehicle, but there are places where autonomous driving is already permitted, although only in a limited way. Las Vegas has begun to enjoy the Zoox service, the robotaxi service powered by Amazon. And although the technology is very advanced, this service begins with a trial period.

Limited trips

To launch this project, it has been decided to establish limited routes subject to a certain level of control. This means that the Zoox service cannot be used to select any destination; instead, it will have pre-programmed routes. In principle, they will serve the main resorts and tourist spots in the city centre, although more routes are expected to be gradually added and eventually opened up.

In high-traffic locations, such as Resorts World Las Vegas and AREA15, there are pick-up points exclusive to Zoox, which also have a Zoox assistance point. This will allow them to install the app and will inform them about how to use it, so they can access the service without problems.

To guide users, the app will show the license plate number of the vehicle in service and the estimated pick-up time. Of course, it will show the vehicle’s position at all times, making it possible to know exactly how long is left before it arrives. The user will be able to rate the service and even leave comments, which the company will use to improve it for future updates.

There is no driver on board the robotaxi, but there is an emergency button and a way to communicate with the service’s staff if needed. And the most important point for the user: this service is provided free of charge until the end of the trial period, the length of which has not yet been announced.