Uber Launches Las Vegas Robotaxis and Partners with Nissan

Uber Technologies Inc. is scaling its autonomous vehicle network through two major initiatives in March 2026. The company launched a commercial robotaxi service in Las Vegas on March 13, utilizing the Motional IONIQ 5. This all-electric vehicle features Level 4 autonomy and a 30-sensor suite. Currently, the service operates with human safety operators at designated locations along Las Vegas Boulevard, including Resorts World and Downtown Las Vegas, with a transition to fully driverless operations expected by late 2026.

The Las Vegas deployment follows a significant restructuring at Motional, which included a 40% workforce reduction and a $1 billion investment from the Hyundai Motor Group. This shift allowed the company to pause commercial activities temporarily to accelerate its long-term development goals.

Simultaneously, Uber entered a partnership with Nissan Motor Co. and Wayve Technologies Ltd. to develop a robotaxi service. This project integrates Wayve's AI-driven autonomous technology into Nissan Leaf electric vehicles. Test operations are scheduled for the second half of 2026, beginning with trained drivers before moving toward full autonomy. The partners intend to expand this service across Japan and into international markets. This move follows a period of cost-cutting at Nissan as the automaker seeks to maintain competitiveness despite declining global sales.