Waymo Targets Tokyo Robotaxi Launch in 2027AutoweekNatalie NeffWed, September 16, 2026 at 1:52 AM UTCAdd us on GoogleWaymo Targets Tokyo Robotaxi Launch in 2027WaymoWaymo is taking the next step toward launching Japan's first commercial robotaxi service, announcing a formal partnership with Tokyo's largest taxi company and the country's leading ride-hailing platform to bring fully autonomous rides to the capital in 2027.The autonomous driving company said it will work with Nihon Kotsu and GO to introduce a Level 4 robotaxi service in Tokyo, subject to regulatory approval and the completion of ongoing safety validation. The companies are targeting a phased rollout beginning next year, with an initial fleet of about 100 autonomous vehicles.The announcement follows work that began back in 2025, when Waymo started testing its self-driving technology on Tokyo streets. Those early trials used Nihon Kotsu drivers behind the wheel as the company collected mapping data and adapted its software to Japan's dense urban environment.AdvertisementAdvertisementUnder the agreement, riders will be able to hail Waymo robotaxis through both the GO taxi app and the Waymo app. GO will oversee integration with Japan's taxi industry, while Nihon Kotsu will handle fleet operations. Waymo will provide its autonomous driving technology and continue leading safety validation.Waymo began offering rides in San Diego this month.The San Diego Union-Tribune - Getty ImagesTokyo would become Waymo's first market in Asia and another milestone in the company's international expansion. Earlier this year, Waymo announced plans to launch a robotaxi service in Munich in late 2027, while continuing to grow across the United States, where it now provides fully autonomous rides in 14 cities.Japan presents a different set of challenges than Waymo's existing US operations. Tokyo's narrow streets, dense traffic, left-hand driving, and complex urban layout require extensive localization of the Waymo Driver, the company's autonomous driving system. Waymo says it has been working closely with local officials and community organizations while training Nihon Kotsu personnel on autonomous fleet operations.The partnership also addresses a growing labor shortage in Japan's taxi industry, where an aging workforce and declining number of professional drivers have increased interest in autonomous transportation.AdvertisementAdvertisementWaymo's commercial ambitions come as competition in the robotaxi market intensifies. Companies including Tesla, Pony.ai, Baidu, and several Chinese developers are expanding autonomous services, while Uber has increasingly partnered with autonomous vehicle operators rather than developing its own self-driving technology.
