Motional, VIa Launch Free Self-Driving Robotaxi Rides in Las Vegas

Motional Via 400x275

February 24, 2022

Motional, which develops driverless technology, and transit technology firm Via have announced the launch of a new robotaxi service in Las Vegas. The service will provide free self-driving rides to passengers in downtown Las Vegas. Motional is also working with Lyft to provide self-driving ride-hailing services in other parts of Las Vegas, scheduled to deploy in 2023.

The partnership with Via signifies the first step in the companies’ vision to introduce networks of on-demand and shared robotaxis at scale in cities – with the ultimate goal of using autonomous vehicles (AVs) to expand the public’s access to safe, affordable and sustainable transportation options, Motional said.

The new service combines Via’s intelligent booking, routing and software application technology with Motional’s self-driving robotaxis, fleet management and in-vehicle passenger experience. The service will connect riders with business hubs, residential buildings, green spaces, government buildings, and public transit stations. The service will operate from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. PT Monday through Friday, and will provide pickups and dropoffs in downtown Las Vegas, including the RTC Bonneville Transit Center, Las Vegas City Hall, Container Park, Las Vegas Arts District, and the Clark County Government Center. Riders can book their ride via the Via app.

“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,” said Cariann Chan, senior vice president 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 is a leader in operating commercial robotaxi services and we’re excited to continue that legacy with Via,” said Abe Ghabra, chief operating officer at Motional. “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.”

For more details on Motional, visit its website here.

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