Motional, the self-driving technology joint venture between Hyundai and Aptiv, plans to launch a robotaxi service in Las Vegas in late 2023, and a new video showcases the unique challenges the city presents.
Motional’s robotic taxis, based on the Hyundai Ioniq 5 electric crossover, have been able to offer rides to the public in Las Vegas since last August, and the vehicles are bookable through Lyft and, more recently, Uber on a limited basis.
The unique challenges they face in Sin City include unpredictable pedestrian behavior, unusual vehicle types (like sedans), and chaotic hotel entrances.
Motional’s robotaxis are equipped with more than 30 sensors, including cameras, radar and lidar. The company also claims that the Ioniq 5’s relatively long range and fast-charging capabilities make it well-suited for ride-hailing services, as it helps maximize utilization.
Redundancies are built into every major system, including navigation, propulsion, steering and braking. Motional also offers remote assistance, allowing a truck driver to take control if a vehicle encounters an unusual situation, such as a stall. B. road construction or flooding.
After Las Vegas, Motional’s robotaxi service will expand to Los Angeles and eventually other US cities. The date for the expansion was not announced.