Uber and Motional have officially kicked off autonomous robotaxi services in Las Vegas, enabling users to connect with a fully electric Hyundai IONIQ 5 via the Uber app.

The service is currently operational at designated spots along Las Vegas Boulevard, including rideshare pick-up zones at Resorts World Las Vegas, Encore at Wynn Las Vegas, and Westgate Las Vegas Resort & Casino. Additionally, the service will be available curbside in downtown Las Vegas and at the Town Square Las Vegas shopping district near the airport. Both companies anticipate expanding the operational area in the future.

When ordering an UberX, Uber Electric, Uber Comfort, or Uber Comfort Electric, riders may receive a Motional robotaxi without any additional fare. Users will be notified and can choose to accept the autonomous ride or opt for a standard ride.

Rides can be initiated through the Uber app, which unlocks the vehicle upon its arrival. Inside the car, audio prompts remind riders to close the doors and buckle up their seatbelts.

Safety is a paramount concern for both firms. Motional’s robotaxis adhere to Uber’s Autonomous Safety Guidelines, and users can reach human support at any time during their trip via the Uber app.

The autonomous vehicle is a result of collaboration between Motional and Hyundai Motor Group. Specifically designed for ride-hailing, this robotaxi is among the first vehicles approved for SAE Level 4 autonomous driving under U.S. Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards.

Initially, a trained operator will be present at the steering wheel to oversee the journey. A completely driverless service without any human oversight is anticipated to roll out by the end of the current year.

“We are thrilled to partner with Motional in launching autonomous rides in Las Vegas,” stated Sarfraz Maredia, President of Autonomous Mobility & Delivery at Uber. “This significant milestone underscores our mutual commitment to deploying autonomous vehicles in a manner that prioritizes safety, enhances reliability, and provides more ride options for our clients.”

David Carroll, Vice President of Commercialization at Motional, mentioned that the AI-driven autonomous system can seamlessly navigate hundreds of pick-up and drop-off locations throughout Las Vegas, encompassing key hotels along the Las Vegas Strip, the Town Square Las Vegas shopping area, and downtown locales.

Uber and Motional inked a 10-year agreement in 2022 to broaden autonomous ride services. This follows earlier pilot initiatives, including an Uber Eats delivery test in Los Angeles and a ride-hailing trial in Las Vegas in the same year.