Motional, the autonomous driving joint venture between Hyundai Motor Group and Uber, has officially launched its robotaxi pilot service in Las Vegas, utilizing the Hyundai Ioniq 5. The service commenced on Sunday.
This pilot program operates within specific zones along Las Vegas Boulevard, encompassing designated pickup locations near Resorts World Las Vegas, downtown Las Vegas, and the Town Square shopping center. Motional intends to progressively expand the service area.
Uber app users requesting rides within the defined service area will be automatically matched with a Motional Ioniq 5 robotaxi. Passengers have the option to select the robotaxi at the standard ride fare or opt for a conventional taxi.
Upon entering the vehicle, riders will receive a welcome message and safety guidelines via voice prompts, including seatbelt reminders. Should passengers require assistance during their journey, they can connect with a support representative through the Uber app.
Motional highlights that its Ioniq 5 robotaxis are certified under the U.S. Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards as SAE Level 4 autonomous vehicles, specifically designed for reliable, driverless operation and ride-hailing services.
Motional and Uber are collaborating to expedite the commercialization of autonomous mobility by integrating Motional’s advanced driving technologies with Uber’s expansive global user network, under a 10-year strategic partnership established in 2022.
The companies previously collaborated on a pilot delivery program utilizing Uber Eats in Los Angeles earlier that year and initiated a ride-hailing pilot program in Las Vegas later in 2022.
“Motional is eager to leverage our extensive ride-hailing expertise in partnership with Uber once again,” stated David Carroll, Vice President of Commercialization at Motional.
“Our AI-driven autonomous driving system enables us to seamlessly navigate numerous high-demand pickup and drop-off points, catering to Uber riders’ desired destinations, including major Strip hotels, the Town Square shopping district, and downtown Las Vegas.”
jwjeon7625
