Alphabet’s Waymo is bringing its robotaxi service to Tokyo, marking its first international expansion as it partners with Japan’s largest taxi operator.
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| Waymo is taking its autonomous vehicles to Tokyo for the first time, partnering with local companies to map the city and test robotaxi services. Image: Waymo |
Mountain View, California, USA - December 17, 2024:
Waymo, the Alphabet-owned autonomous vehicle company, is taking its robotaxi services overseas for the first time. The company announced plans to begin testing in Tokyo early next year, marking a significant milestone in its global expansion strategy.
A fleet of Waymo's autonomous vehicles will navigate the bustling streets of Tokyo as part of a collaboration with Nihon Kotsu, the city's largest taxi operator, and GO, a leading taxi-hailing app in Japan. Initially, Nihon Kotsu drivers will manually operate the vehicles to map key areas of the city, including Minato, Shinjuku, Shibuya, Chiyoda, Chūō, Shinagawa, and Kōtō. This phase will pave the way for a pilot robotaxi service, although Waymo has not disclosed a timeline for its launch.
The move to Tokyo will enable Waymo’s technology to adapt to left-hand traffic and the unique driving dynamics of one of the world’s most densely populated urban areas. "Our upcoming road trip to Tokyo gives us the chance to work alongside local partners, government officials, and community groups to understand the new landscape," Waymo said in a blog post. The company emphasized its commitment to safety and collaboration with Japanese policymakers to ensure a responsible rollout of its technology.
Tokyo’s ongoing taxi driver shortage may have influenced Waymo’s decision to enter the Japanese market. However, a fully operational robotaxi service covering the entire city is expected to take years to materialize.
Waymo has been testing autonomous vehicles in U.S. cities like San Francisco, Phoenix, Los Angeles, and Miami. Its expansion to Japan highlights its ambition to scale globally amid increasing competition. Meanwhile, rival autonomous vehicle company Cruise, owned by General Motors, recently announced it would cease operations due to financial challenges and scaling difficulties.
Waymo’s Tokyo venture is poised to explore how autonomous technology can contribute to Japan’s transportation needs while solidifying its position as a leader in the evolving robotaxi market.