Uber Launches Motional Ioniq 5 Robotaxi Service In Las Vegas

Uber Technologies and Motional have launched a new autonomous ride-hailing service in Las Vegas, allowing riders to be matched with an all-electric robotaxi built on the Hyundai IONIQ 5 platform.

The new service integrates Motional’s autonomous driving technology directly into the Uber app, giving riders a chance to experience driverless mobility along some of the busiest areas of the Las Vegas Strip.

Where the Robotaxi Service Is Available

At launch, the service will operate from several key pickup and drop-off points along Las Vegas Boulevard.

Initial locations include:

– Resorts World Las Vegas rideshare zones
– Encore at Wynn Las Vegas pickup areas
– Westgate Las Vegas Resort & Casino
– Downtown Las Vegas curbside pickup locations
– Town Square Las Vegas shopping district near the airport

Both companies say the operating area will expand as the service grows.

How Uber Riders Can Get a Robotaxi

Using the service is designed to feel familiar to anyone who already uses Uber.

Requesting a ride

Passengers requesting UberX, Uber Electric, Uber Comfort, or Uber Comfort Electric may be matched with a Motional robotaxi at no additional cost. If an autonomous vehicle is assigned, riders will receive a notification and can either accept it or switch to a traditional ride.

Starting the trip

When the robotaxi arrives, riders unlock the vehicle and begin the trip directly from the Uber app. Once inside, audio prompts remind passengers to close the doors and fasten their seat belts before the journey begins.Increasing the chance of a robotaxi
Riders who want to experience autonomous travel can opt in through the Ride Preferences section in the Uber app’s settings.

Safety and support

Safety remains central to the rollout. Motional’s robotaxis comply with Uber’s autonomous safety guidelines, and riders can contact human support through the app if assistance is needed during a trip.

The Technology Behind the Robotaxi

The robotaxi is based on the Hyundai IONIQ 5 and was developed through a collaboration between Motional and Hyundai Motor Group.

The vehicle was specifically engineered for ride-hailing services and long-term autonomous operation. It is also among the first autonomous vehicles capable of meeting U.S. Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards certification requirements while supporting SAE Level 4 autonomous driving capability.

At launch, a trained vehicle operator will sit behind the wheel to monitor operations. However, Motional and Uber plan to introduce a fully driverless service later this year, removing the human safety operator from the vehicle entirely.

Expanding Autonomous Ride-Hailing

The Las Vegas deployment builds on a broader collaboration between Uber and Motional. In 2022, the two companies signed a 10-year framework agreement aimed at scaling autonomous ride-hailing services.

The partnership began with an autonomous delivery pilot for Uber Eats in Los Angeles before expanding to ride-hailing trials in Las Vegas later that year.

With the new robotaxi launch, both companies are taking another step toward integrating autonomous vehicles into everyday mobility—starting with one of the most visited destinations in the United States.

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