Zoox announced Thursday that its driverless robotaxis will begin transporting passengers to and from Harry Reid International Airport in Las Vegas, marking the company’s first airport service.
The Amazon-owned company told FOX Business that, beginning Thursday, riders can book trips between Harry Reid International Airport and the Las Vegas Strip.
“Bringing autonomous transportation to one of the country’s busiest airports requires true partnership, and we are grateful to the Clark County Department of Aviation and the state of Nevada for their continued support as we help shape the future of mobility,” said Ron Thaniel, Zoox’s senior director of policy and regulatory affairs.
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Zoox will pick up and drop off passengers at designated curbside locations at the airport, with pickup and drop-off points varying by each of the two passenger terminals.
The robotaxis use lights and audio cues to help riders locate them in busy pickup areas, and passengers can pair their devices via Bluetooth to listen to their own music during the ride.
The vehicles seat four passengers and feature carriage-style seating, with two rows facing each other. The company said there is enough room for roughly one piece of luggage per person if the vehicle is full.
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On July 31, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration granted Zoox a temporary exemption from certain federal motor vehicle safety standards, clearing a key regulatory hurdle for the company to begin charging for rides.
The exemption was necessary because the vehicles lack traditional driver controls, including a steering wheel and pedals, that are required under federal safety standards.
After receiving the federal government’s blessing, Zoox launched paid robotaxi rides in Las Vegas on Aug. 10. The company also operates in San Francisco, where its service remains in the testing phase.
Destinations within the app include the Las Vegas Convention Center, the Sphere, the T-Mobile Arena and many major resorts on the Strip.
According to Zoox’s website, the company is looking to begin offering paid rides in 10 other cities, including Seattle, Austin, Dallas, Houston, San Diego and Los Angeles.
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