From Limited Routes to Strip Dominance (Image Credits: Unsplash)
Las Vegas — Amazon-owned robotaxi company Zoox revealed plans Tuesday to more than double the number of service locations for its driverless rides across the city. The expansion targets the heart of the Strip’s resorts, the Las Vegas Convention Center, and select high-traffic events at Sphere and T-Mobile Arena.[1][2] Since launching public rides last September, Zoox vehicles have logged nearly 2 million autonomous miles and transported over 350,000 passengers, mostly for free.[3]
From Limited Routes to Strip Dominance
Zoox first offered rides between a handful of spots, including Resorts World, Topgolf, New York-New York, Excalibur, and AREA15. The company now aims to cover the majority of major hotels along the Las Vegas Strip alongside the Convention Center. New pickup and drop-off zones at these sites will roll out to employees immediately, with public access expected later this spring.[1]
This growth reflects strong early performance in Southern Nevada, where Zoox has operated since 2019 from a large headquarters in the southwest valley. Riders summon vehicles through the Zoox app, which lists all available spots. The service remains free during this demonstration phase under a National Highway Traffic Safety Administration exemption granted last August.[1]
Targeted Service for Vegas’s Biggest Events
Sphere and T-Mobile Arena, two of the city’s premier venues, will see limited robotaxi access during peak events like concerts and sports games. Zoox already holds official partnerships with both: Sphere named the company its autonomous ride-hail partner last fall, while T-Mobile Arena added Zoox as a venue partner in December. Dedicated zones at these spots aim to ease congestion when crowds swell.[1]
- Sphere: Multi-year deal includes app-based pickups starting early this year.
- T-Mobile Arena: West VIP entrance features a dedicated lane for Zoox arrivals.
- High-traffic focus: Service activates only during major gatherings to manage demand.
Initial rides to these venues go to Zoox staff before opening wider. The approach prioritizes safety in chaotic event environments, building on prior tests.[3]
Inside the Pod: Features That Set Zoox Apart
Zoox vehicles stand out as purpose-built pods without steering wheels or pedals. Four seats face each other in pairs, allowing forward or backward travel at speeds up to 75 mph. Passengers adjust climate, play music, and charge devices via built-in screens.
New enhancements include an updated ETA engine for precise arrival times and pre-booking options. A “Find my Zoox” tool plays unique sounds and sends messages to match riders with their ride. Starting this summer, users can book through the Uber app, expanding reach further.[3]
Airport Tests Pave Way for Paid Expansion
Zoox has tested trips to Harry Reid International Airport using modified Toyota Highlanders for the past year. Purpose-built robotaxis will soon join those runs, setting the stage for full airport service. Meanwhile, the company seeks NHTSA approval to charge fares and deploy more vehicles.
“After receiving and considering public comments, NHTSA will make a decision on the merits of the application,” an agency spokesperson stated earlier this month.[1] CEO Aicha Evans called this “our year of growth,” citing lessons from initial deployments to scale safely nationwide.[2]
Zoox’s push aligns with Vegas’s evolving transport needs, where traffic and events challenge traditional options. As robotaxis integrate deeper into daily life here, they promise smoother access to the city’s endless attractions. What do you think about hailing a driverless ride to your next show? Tell us in the comments.
Key Takeaways
- Service sites more than double, hitting most Strip hotels and Convention Center this spring.
- Limited event rides at Sphere and T-Mobile Arena start with staff, go public soon.
- Uber bookings and paid fares eyed for summer; airport service in works.
