Hyundai-backed Motional and TransitTech company Via, have announced the launch of a new robotaxi service in Las Vegas, which will provide free self-driving rides to passengers in downtown Las Vegas. The partnership signifies the first step in Motional and Via’s long-term plan to introduce networks of on-demand and shared robotaxis at scale in cities.
The service combines Via’s intelligent booking, routing, and software application technology with Motional’s self-driving robotaxis, fleet management, and in-vehicle passenger experience.
Motional’s robotaxis are now available on the Via app for passengers in downtown Las Vegas, and will connect riders with business hubs, residential buildings, green spaces, government buildings, public transit stations, and more.
Motional and Via announced a partnership in 2020 to connect riders with robotaxis at scale, and position AVs to reach their full potential as part of large-scale transit networks.
Abe Ghabra, Chief Operating Officer at Motional, says: “Motional is a leader in operating commercial robotaxi services and we’re excited to continue that legacy with Via. Our partnership offers a new channel for members of the public to experience safe and convenient self-driving rides, with a focus on effectively integrating Motional’s robotaxis with existing transit networks. We look forward to learning from this service and growing our collaboration with Via.”
“At Via, we believe on-demand autonomous vehicles can play a huge role in expanding access to efficient, sustainable, and cost-effective transportation in our cities,” adds Cariann Chan, SVP of Business at Via. “We are proud that our partnership with Motional will achieve this goal through connecting Las Vegas riders with essential destinations and transit hubs.”
Motional was formed in 2020 as a joint venture between Hyundai Motor Group and Aptiv, a global industrial technology leader in advanced safety, electrification, and vehicle connectivity.
It operates of the world’s most-established public robotaxi fleet which has conducted over 100,000 public rides.
Keyword: Motional and Via Launch On-Demand Robotaxi Service in Las Vegas