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

Dec 17, 2024, 08:18 AM

Waymo, a subsidiary of Alphabet Inc., has announced plans to begin testing its autonomous vehicles in Tokyo in early 2025, marking its first international expansion. The company will partner with Japan’s largest taxi operator, Nihon Kotsu, and the taxi app GO for this initiative. The testing will involve a fleet of electric Jaguar I-PACE SUVs, which will initially be operated by human drivers to map key areas of Tokyo. This move represents a significant step for Waymo as it adapts its technology to navigate Japan's left-hand traffic and the unique challenges posed by one of the world's busiest urban environments. Waymo's expansion into Tokyo follows successful operations in the United States and aims to leverage Japan's advanced technology landscape and dense urban setting.