Amazon subsidiary Zoox will start a paid robotaxi service in Las Vegas from Aug. 10 local time. CNBC reported on Aug. 5 local time that the launch is Zoox's first commercial robotaxi service.

Zoox has operated free driverless ride services for the general public in parts of Las Vegas and San Francisco since last year. In July, it received a temporary exemption from federal regulators from requirements to equip vehicles with human steering and braking equipment, making it possible to charge fares.

Chief Executive Officer Aicha Evans (아이샤 에번스) said paid service is a new challenge because customer expectations are higher than for free rides.

Unlike other self-driving companies, Zoox operates a box-shaped shuttle without a steering wheel or brakes. The interior is designed for up to 4 passengers to sit facing one another. It uses bi-directional wheels, allowing it to move forward and backward without turning around.

Zoox said cumulative riders in Las Vegas, San Francisco, Austin and Miami have reached nearly 1,000,000 since the free service began. Fares are calculated by adding distance and time to a base fare. Some routes, such as airport trips, may include a destination fee.

Zoox will need additional permits to expand paid operations outside Las Vegas. That is because it must obtain approvals from state and local governments in addition to federal approval. New York state withdrew a plan in February to allow commercial robotaxis in some areas, and New York City did not extend a permit for Waymo in March.