Uber and Motional launch robotaxi service…

Robotaxis on Uber at no extra cost

Uber and Motional have launched a self-driving taxi service in Las Vegas, available directly within the Uber app. The service is built on the IONIQ 5 robo-taxi, a 100% electric vehicle with SAE Level 4 autonomous driving capabilities, co-developed by Motional and Hyundai Motor Group. It is available at no additional cost for certain ride types. It currently covers designated pick-up points on the Las Vegas Strip and adjacent areas, with plans to roll out more broadly.

Testing from 2022

Riders requesting UberX, Uber Electric, Uber Comfort or Uber Comfort Electric can now be matched with a Motional robotaxi. Notifications in the app let them accept autonomous driving or switch to human-driven alternatives. Vehicle unlocking, trip initiation and support are all handled within the Uber interface. Partners emphasize safety protocols, compliance with Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS) and ready access to human assistance.

During launch, an operator remains behind the wheel to monitor the road. The partners said they aim to offer a fully driverless service by the end of 2026, subject to obtaining the necessary authorizations. Traffic in Las Vegas is concentrated between hotels, casinos, shopping areas, and the airport, making it suitable for standardized routes. Motional has been testing in Nevada cities since 2022, aiming to leverage experience gained from its autonomous driving systems and early commercial operations. Expected benefits include better service continuity, electrification of journeys and improved accessibility for visitors and residents.