Driverless tech firm Motional and transit software developer Via have launched a robotaxi service in Las Vegas. The service will provide free self-driving rides in the town centre.

The two companies plan to introduce networks of on-demand and shared robotaxis at scale in cities — with the ultimate goal of providing safe and affordable urban transportation systems based on autonomous vehicles.

The service operates 9 am to 5 pm PT Monday to Friday, and will provide pick-ups and drop-offs in central Las Vegas (including RTC Bonneville Transit Centre, Las Vegas City Hall, Container Park, Las Vegas Arts District, and Clark County Government Centre).

The central Las Vegas 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 available on the Via app for passengers in central Las Vegas, and will connect riders with business hubs, residential buildings, green spaces, government buildings, and public transit stations.

Motional and Via announced a partnership in 2020 created to connect riders with robotaxis at scale, and position AVs to reach their full potential as part of large-scale transit networks.

“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, 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 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.”