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Waymo to Test Electric Jaguar I-PACE Robotaxis in Tokyo in Early 2025, Marking First International Expansion

Dec 17, 2024, 03:35 AM

Waymo, the autonomous vehicle subsidiary of Alphabet Inc., is set to begin testing its robotaxis in Tokyo in early 2025. This marks the company's first international expansion beyond the United States. Waymo will collaborate with Japan's largest taxi operator, Nihon Kotsu, and the taxi app GO to conduct these tests. The initial phase will involve manually operated vehicles to map key areas of Tokyo, adapting to the city's unique traffic conditions, including left-hand driving. The fleet will consist of electric Jaguar I-PACE vehicles, which are expected to learn and navigate the complexities of urban driving in Japan. This initiative is part of Waymo's broader strategy to expand its autonomous vehicle technology globally, as the company continues to refine its operations in the U.S. and explore opportunities in other markets.