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Uber, Motional Launch Las Vegas Service: Robotaxi Space Heating Up?
ZACKS· 2026-03-17 16:40
Core Insights - Uber Technologies and Motional have launched a new robotaxi service in Las Vegas, utilizing the Hyundai Ioniq 5 to expand in the self-driving vehicle market [1][10] Service Launch Details - The robotaxi service will operate at select locations along Las Vegas Boulevard, including Resorts World Las Vegas, Encore at Wynn Las Vegas, and Westgate Las Vegas Resort & Casino, with plans for gradual expansion [2] - Passengers using UberX, Uber Electric, Uber Comfort, or Uber Comfort Electric may be matched with a Motional robotaxi at no extra charge, with the option to accept or switch to a traditional ride [3] Vehicle Specifications - The IONIQ 5 robotaxi is designed for ride-hailing and is among the first SAE Level 4 autonomous vehicles certified under U.S. Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards, initially featuring a safety operator [4] Competitive Landscape - Uber already provides robotaxi services in cities like Austin, Phoenix, Dallas, and Atlanta through Alphabet's Waymo network, which has established commercial operations in multiple U.S. cities [5] - Uber's autonomous vehicle ambitions are gaining traction through scalable deployments, focusing on growth in suburban and low-density markets [6] International Expansion - Uber has partnered with WeRide to launch robotaxi services in Dubai, accessible through the Uber app in popular tourist areas [7] Financial Performance - Uber's shares have declined in double digits over the past six months, underperforming the Zacks Internet-Services industry [8] - The company trades at a 12-month forward price-to-sales ratio of 2.57X, which is considered inexpensive compared to its industry [11] Earnings Estimates - The Zacks Consensus Estimate for Uber's earnings for the full years 2026 and 2027 has been declining over the past 60 days, with current estimates at $3.34 for 2026 and $4.22 for 2027 [12]