Waymo to Test Electric Jaguar Robotaxis in Tokyo in Early 2025 with Nihon Kotsu Partnership, First International Destination

Dec 17, 2024, 12:40 AM

Waymo, the autonomous vehicle subsidiary of Alphabet Inc., is set to begin testing its robotaxi service in Tokyo, marking its first international expansion. The testing is scheduled for early 2025 and will be conducted in partnership with Japan's largest taxi operator, Nihon Kotsu, and the taxi app GO. During the initial phase, drivers will manually operate the vehicles to map key areas of Tokyo. This initiative follows Waymo's recent expansions in the U.S., including Austin, where the company has reported safety benefits from its autonomous driving technology. The move into Japan presents an opportunity for Waymo to adapt its technology to left-hand traffic conditions and navigate the complexities of one of the world's busiest urban environments.