B2 – Upper Intermediate
Amazon’s Zoox is stepping into the future of transportation, joining a growing movement toward autonomous ride services. This marks a new chapter in how technology is reshaping everyday travel and urban mobility.
Watch the video about how Zoox’s robotaxi is unfolding.
Vocabulary Questions:
- What does “BOM” stand for and what does the phrase “BOM cost” mean? “This is confidential information that we don’t really disclose. BOM cost is something that we watch and manage very carefully.” Use it in a sentence. Give a synonym or similar expression.
- What does the verb “shoehorn” mean in business context? “
You can shoehorn a robotaxic into something that used to be a car. It’s just not an ideal solution.” Use it in your own sentence. Give a synonym or similar expression. - What does “retrofit” mean when describing modified vehicles? “Zoox will soon begin testing robotaxis in those markets, and said it’s already driving retrofitted test vehicles in Los Angeles, Atlanta and Seattle.” Use it in a sentence and make two synonyms.
Discussion Questions:
- What’s your take on Zoox introducing autonomous vehicles to a major tourist hub like Las Vegas?
- What’s your experience with autonomous vehicles—have you ever taken a ride in one?
- How soon do you think driverless taxis will be a regular part of daily life where you live?
- How might self-driving cars change the way we think about road safety?
- Describe your daily habits when it comes to using ride-hailing services. How often do you rely on them, and for what kinds of trips?