Zoox is advancing its plans to introduce a robotaxi service in Las Vegas by partnering with Resorts World on the north Strip. This partnership designates Zoox as the official robotaxi provider for the resort, including a specific pickup and drop-off point and an interactive presence within the resort.
Carlos Castro, president and CFO of Resorts World, highlighted the importance of integrating technology to improve guest experiences, positioning Las Vegas as a leader in innovation. This agreement marks a significant step toward Zoox’s intended launch of its service in Las Vegas, following an incident involving a minor crash of one of its vehicles.
In April, an unoccupied Zoox robotaxi collided with an occupied vehicle in the Las Vegas Valley. There were no injuries, and both vehicles experienced minor damage. After the incident, Zoox temporarily recalled 270 of its autonomous vehicles and halted operations in the city.
Zoox has been conducting autonomous driving tests in Las Vegas since 2019, initially using modified Toyota Highlanders with safety drivers to gather essential real-world data. The forthcoming robotaxi service will feature custom-built, four-seater pods without drivers. These bi-directional pods can travel at speeds up to 75 mph and are equipped with advanced technology, including four-wheel steering and a suite of sensors.
The collaboration with Resorts World follows Zoox’s previous partnership with the Vegas Golden Knights, where robotaxi services will be available for transport to and from games. Michael White, Zoox’s chief product officer, emphasized the partnership’s role in enhancing customer experiences and adding value to Las Vegas visitors’ journeys through personalized mobility.