Uber has announced the introduction of autonomous vehicles (AVs) into additional cities, including Las Vegas.
The company has stated that each rollout will be closely monitored, with availability expected to vary based on both geography and time of day – both of which will evolve over time.
Currently, Uber and its partners offer autonomous vehicles in sections of certain US cities, such as Atlanta, Austin, Dallas, and Las Vegas.
Going forward; riders who request an UberX, Uber Comfort, or Uber Comfort Electric service in cities with AVs may get offered a ride with one if available.
Users are free to accept or decline the ride, and they can also customise their Uber app settings to increase their chances of matching with an autonomous vehicle.
Initially, select rides may have a specialist on board from an Uber partner in order to monitor the vehicle and take over in the event it is deemed necessary.
Uber has stated that it expects minimal driver impact, and has stressed that it intends to utilise AVs to help meet rider demand during busy periods, or in areas with fewer available drivers.
The company has also stated that it does not intend to replace human drivers with AV solutions.
