Waymo has announced a partnership with Nihon Kotsu and GO, to bring autonomous vehicles to Tokyo. There, the Waymo Driver will learn and adapt to left-hand traffic and new driving nuances associated with operating in one of the world’s most densely populated urban environments.
Operating in Tokyo provides the chance to work alongside local partners, government officials, and community groups to understand the new landscape.
This expansion into Japan aligns with the country’s vision for the future of transportation. Over the years, the Japanese National and Tokyo Metropolitan governments have been proactively working to address the evolving transportation needs of society and foster the adoption of innovative technologies that can enhance safety and mobility. Waymo is engaging with Japanese policymakers, regulators, and local safety officials to ensure a responsible and seamless implementation of Waymo’s technology to Tokyo’s streets.
The first Waymo, all-electric Jaguar I-PACEs will arrive in Tokyo in early 2025. Nihon Kotsu, Tokyo’s largest taxi company, will oversee the management and servicing of the Waymo vehicles. The companies are working closely together to train Nihon Kotsu’s team on operating vehicles equipped with Waymo’s autonomous driving system. Initially, Nihon Kotsu drivers will operate the vehicles manually to map key areas of the Japanese capital, including Minato, Shinjuku, Shibuya, Chiyoda, Chūō, Shinagawa, and Kōtō.
