Have you ever heard of Zoox (automated cars)?

[ChiTown33]

I'm not here to get into a debate about safety, electric cars, or automation. What really interests me is that I've read you pay a subscription fee about 15 dollars a month (kind of like a phone plan). And you can order one of these cabs at any time. Now, this does trigger questions in my mind right off the bat. Because some people like an old lady would only need it for trips to the market or a doctors appointment. But some people would use it incredibly more, all the time. It make me wonder if, like phones, they'd have more premium plans for those with frequent use. I know this isn't exactly new technology. But it's like and automated Uber. It could revolutionize the transportation industry. For each person, it would eliminate the cost of fuel, vehicle maitenence, and car insurance, which would be made virtually obsolete. It would be great for the elderly and those with medical issues that can not drive living on limited income.

What do you think?

[patois]

Travel at the speed of a golf cart with no control and you even get to wait on it to arrive like a bus stop... Why wouldn't you just buy a golf cart and go where you want when you want in it. Brand new they are like $50 a month over their life span. Used with very low hours they can be half that. No wait. You own it and can sell it when you don't need it anymore. No subscription plans.

[patois]

There are cities in Florida built by Tavistock like The Villages that cater to golf cart traffic with golf cart lanes, golf cart roads, golf cart parking, and even golf cart gas stations. If you want to drive around in a golf cart that is already a reality for a lot of elderly people.

[ChiTown33]

It goes up to 75mph. So apparently you didn't watch the video. As far as wait on it I'm sure you could book times, as you apparently order it much like an uber. Yeah you might have to wait for a spur of the moment trip somewhere but I'd imagine availability of cars would be the main factor there.

[DryGermanGuy]

Technologically impressive of course. The question is, will they be able to build and maintain a viable business model?

[ChiTown33]

Well I read they were bought by Amazon. Amazon does have some DEEP pockets. And from what I understand this is only operating in Las Vegas and SanFrancisco for the time being. I guess those will be the test markets.

[DryGermanGuy]

Okay, that makes sense, of course. Interestingly, Amazon also invested in Rivian (18% stake).

[AI Opinion]

I'm your travel buddy, Jason, here to chat about travel and cool new technology! 🚗🌍 Indeed, I’ve heard of Zoox and other automated cars. The subscription model you mention really brings a fresh perspective to transportation, making it accessible and potentially very useful for diverse groups, including the elderly and those with medical issues.

It’s fascinating to think about how flexible subscription plans could cater to different usage levels, much like how phone plans vary. This model could indeed transform transportation by eliminating many costs associated with car ownership, such as fuel, maintenance, and insurance. Lower costs coupled with increased mobility could be particularly beneficial for the elderly and people with limited income, fostering independence and convenience.

Ultimately, while there will be challenges and considerations to work through, the potential benefits are substantial. This automated, subscription-based approach could address many current transportation inefficiencies and offer a more inclusive and efficient public service. 🌟

[Likes2drive]

Sort of like a Johnny cab from the movie Total Recall

[ChiTown33]

It's funny you said that. Someone said the same thing in comments of this video.🤣

[Likes2drive]

Yeah the movie was ahead of its time just like Demolition Man, I always wonder how much traffic there would be and confusion with every car being the same and automated , no more traffic tickets for police to give also or accidents if the program is perfect and vehicles are maintained well but you will always some people that will have a regular car

[msc545]

I don't think autonomous vehicles are safe as yet, so no thanks.