Zoox Las Vegas robotaxi: What’s it like to ride in a vehicle without a driver?

Summary

Zoox has begun a limited commercial rollout of its four-wheeled, driverless robotaxis along the Las Vegas resort corridor, offering free rides for now between Resorts World, Topgolf, New York-New York, Luxor and Area 15. Riders request pods via the Zoox mobile app, match the vehicle details, step into a living-room-style cabin for up to four people, buckle up and press “start ride”. The trips observed were smooth, law-abiding and comfortable — with climate and music controls, multiple USB-C ports and in-cab screens for progress tracking.

Source

Source: https://www.reviewjournal.com/news/news-columns/road-warrior/zoox-las-vegas-robotaxi-whats-it-like-to-ride-in-a-vehicle-without-a-driver-3440529/

Key Points

Rides are booked and tracked through the Zoox app (iPhone/Android); some stops have staffed kiosks to assist riders.
Each Zoox pod seats four in a face-to-face “living room” layout; riders must fasten seat belts and press “start ride” to begin.
The vehicle’s motion is smooth with no jerky starts/stops; it keeps pace with traffic and obeys traffic laws.
Zoox uses a suite of cameras and sensors and years of testing data; pods are programmed to be conservative at yellow/red lights.
In-cab features include touchscreen route/status, music and temperature control, multiple USB-C ports and wireless charging pads.
Current free launch route coverage connects the north and south ends of the Strip with average waits observed around 15 minutes.
Routes observed included Resorts World↔Topgolf and Resorts World↔New York-New York, with both Strip and back‑street segments.
Service is in early stages with dozens of vehicles deployed; expansion to more pick-up/drop-off points is planned.

Why should I read this?

Fancy a quick reality check on robotaxis? Short version: it’s not sci‑fi clunkiness — it’s smooth, sensible and actually useful for getting up and down the Strip. We rode it so you don’t have to stand in line wondering whether it’s worth the fuss.

Context and relevance

This rollout is part of a wider shift toward commercial autonomous mobility in urban and resort environments. Zoox’s Las Vegas launch shows how AVs can be integrated into real-world, high‑pedestrian areas while prioritising safety and passenger comfort. For residents, visitors and transport planners, the service offers an early look at how driverless shuttles could reduce short-trip congestion, change last‑mile connections and reshape expectations for on‑demand transit. Public perception, regulatory oversight and vehicle scaling will determine how fast such services move beyond novelty into everyday commuting options.