Lyft has announced its partnership with Motional to launch a fully self-driving ride-hailing service in Los Angeles.
The platform will use Motional’s robotaxis built on the electric Ioniq 5.
The service will give Los Angeles residents their first taste of autonomous mobility. However, it would be the second city for the two companies after launching in Las Vegas.
The pair had been conducting public test rides in the entertainment capital.
Motional offers Level 4 autonomous operation, and Lyft is adding it to its platform to provide its riders with more choices.
“Los Angeles was the second city Lyft launched back in 2013 and it’s only fitting that it will be the second AV market we launch with our partner, Motional,” said Logan Green, Lyft’s CEO and co-founder. “Scaling AVs only works if riders can get a reliable ride, whether it’s autonomous or not, and together with Motional, Lyft will turn AV technology into transportation for Angelenos everywhere.”
Motional’s president and CEO said, Karl Iagnemma, “This is an exciting next step for Motional and Lyft as we bring robotaxis to Lyft riders in Los Angeles for the first time. Los Angeles is the second most populated city in the U.S. and represents a huge market opportunity for AV adoption. This service will build on the five years of commercial experience we already have with Lyft, and give Los Angeles riders a driverless experience that prioritizes safety, is affordable, and supports the city’s commitment to improved mobility.”
Rival self—driving company Cruise has begun offering daytime rides in San Francisco.
