Aisha Evans, CEO of Zoox, a company focused on self-driving vehicles, emphasized the importance of designing products with a human focus at the TIME Trailblazers Dinner in Las Vegas. As one of the TIME Trailblazers honorees in 2026, Evans spoke about the design of her company's robotaxis, which she jokingly refers to as "toasters." Evans stated that the goal of this design is to prioritize the rider's experience and eliminate the need to think about driving.
Rider Experience and Safety
In her remarks, Evans pointed out that "we have a very simple view: when you are in our robotaxi, if you think about driving, we have actually failed." She described the company's main goal as creating a comfortable and worry-free space for passengers. She also highlighted Zoox's responsibility to ensure the safety of riders, noting that nearly 40,000 people in the United States lose their lives each year due to traffic accidents.
Technology and Human Housing
Continuing the event, Jason Ballard, an entrepreneur and another TIME Trailblazers honoree in 2026, referred to his experiences with storms on the Texas Gulf Coast and emphasized the need for human and beautiful housing. He stated that current constructions are still "inhuman" and "repetitive," and he is looking for a future where housing is both "accessible" and "beautiful."
Ballard also expressed that technology can align values that seem contradictory. He stated, "Advanced technology should help us not to put our values in conflict," adding that today people are forced to choose between beauty and price.
The Role of Artificial Intelligence in Improving Lives
Steve Blum, Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of Autodesk, one of the event's sponsors, also spoke on the panel and addressed current concerns about artificial intelligence and automation. He said that in his company, "AI is used to enhance human capabilities, not to replace them," and this technology allows people to have more time for their favorite activities.
Blum further stated that during his travels around the world, he has often heard that people cannot engage in all their favorite projects because they lack the capacity and workforce. He believes that AI can help improve human performance and allow them to accomplish more.
Future Outlook
At the end of the panel discussion, Ballard presented a positive vision of a human-centered future and emphasized the role of technology in enhancing human dignity. He expressed hope that technological advancements will bring new opportunities for humanity instead of creating fear and concern. He said, "This is a very exciting time to be alive."
