MADRID (AP) — Uber has launched a new ride service in Spain's capitol matching riders with licensed professional drivers after its traditional service was shut down when a judge in 2014 ruled it didn't comply with Spanish law.

The company on Wednesday launched UberX in greater Madrid only, with no immediate expansion plans.

Its southern Europe director, Carles Lloret, said fares could be up to 40 percent cheaper than cab rates.

Drivers hailed via UberX are professionally licensed to carry passengers in vehicles without taxi markings. They are not authorized to pick up fares on the street like taxis do.

Lloret told the government-owned TVE broadcaster that "Spain probably has the most restrictive laws in Europe" impacting Uber's ability to operate.