• Amazon's Zoox launches its robotaxi service in Las Vegas, offering free rides.
• The service initially covers designated locations on the Las Vegas Strip.
• Zoox plans to expand its service to San Francisco and other U.S. cities.
• Distinctively designed vehicles operate without steering wheels or pedals.
• Zoox aims to compete with Waymo and Tesla in the driverless market.

Amazon has officially entered the U.S. robotaxi market with the launch of its Zoox service in Las Vegas, where it provides free rides on the Strip. This introduction is part of Zoox's strategy to familiarize the public with its autonomous vehicles, which do not have steering wheels or pedals, setting them apart from competitors like Waymo and Tesla. The rides are offered at limited hotspots, including Resorts World and AREA15, and are available for anyone within a specified geo-fence via the Zoox app, according to latimes, businessinsider, and indiatimes.

Zoox, which Amazon acquired for $1.3 billion, operates a fleet of approximately 50 robotaxis primarily in Las Vegas, with plans to scale operations as demand increases. The company has also announced intentions to expand into San Francisco, where it plans to introduce an early rider program before the year's end. Zoox aims to produce distinct vehicles, crafted specifically for ride-sharing, unlike many competitors utilizing retrofitted cars, according to latimes, businessinsider, and indiatimes.

The technology behind Zoox's robotaxis includes a unique design with seating arrangements allowing passengers to face one another, enhancing conversation and sightseeing experiences. The vehicles are built from the ground up for the purposes of providing a superior ride-sharing service. Each robotaxi features bidirectional wheels, can operate up to 16 hours on a single charge, and is aimed at building a fleet that could potentially expand into markets like Austin and Miami soon, according to latimes, businessinsider, and indiatimes.