WHAT IS ZOOX AND WHY DID I TRY IT?
Zoox operates in limited locations and is one of Amazon's fully driverless vehicle initiatives in Las Vegas.
I booked the ride primarily for the experience and, secondarily, because I have teenagers who think this technology is fascinating.
HOW DOES ZOOX WORK?
You download the Zoox app, schedule your ride, and add a credit card. During this early phase, rides were free, even though a card was required. Ride wait time can last up to 45 minutes, but service is limited to about five Las Vegas hotels. I stayed at the New York-New York.
Be aware that pickup locations are at the front of hotels, not always where Uber picks up, even if the drop-off location looks similar. Everything runs through the app, which worked smoothly and provided arrival updates and a live travel map. The app worked great.
HOW SAFE AND COMFORTABLE DID THE RIDE FEEL?
From a safety and comfort perspective, I had mixed feelings.
I'm a Class B driver so a driverless car is not more safe than having class B driving experience.
During the ride, another vehicle came close to sideswiping us. Zoox did move out of the way, but not as quickly as I would have expected. I could not tell whether the delay was due to sensor interpretation, or system decision-making, or whoever is controlling it at the "secretive station".
As a passenger, the hesitation increased my anxiety. The situation resolved safely, but it did not inspire confidence.
WHAT WERE THE BIGGEST SAFETY CONCERNS?
One critical concern for me is that the vehicle does not have a horn. As a Class B driver, I consider a horn a fundamental safety tool. It is often the fastest way to communicate with other drivers and prevent near-miss situations.
The absence of a horn alone would make me cautious about riding again, and it is the primary reason I would not support widespread adoption at this stage, unless you have stock.
HOW DID IT FEEL AS A PASSENGER OVERALL?
The ride was smooth, seating spacious. While it was a short trip (2 miles) my anxiety was manageable, I would not choose this option for longer distances.
The experience felt more like a controlled experiment than everyday transportation.
WHAT FEATURES STOOD OUT IN A POSITIVE WAY?
*Fully driverless design with no steering wheel or pedals, which is striking to see in motion.
*Spacious, symmetrical interior that allows passengers to sit facing each other comfortably.
*Smooth acceleration and braking overall, especially in normal traffic flow.
*Stopped completely at all stop signs and lights.
*Large windows and a clean, modern cabin design that feels intentionally built for passengers, not retrofitted.
*Tinted windows.
*Music & sound was good.
*Inside mood lighting.
*On-screen ride information that helps passengers understand what the vehicle is doing during the trip.
WOULD I RIDE ZOOX AGAIN OR RECOMMEND IT?
I am glad I tried Zoox for the experience, and I understand why teenagers and tech enthusiasts find it exciting. However, from a professional driving and safety perspective, I would approach it with caution. Until basic safety signaling, such as a horn, and more predictive responsiveness are addressed, this is not a service I would personally endorse for regular use.
BTW, Zoox is safer than some human drivers, smh.
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