Waymo, Nihon Kotsu and GO agreed to launch an unmanned ride-hailing service in Tokyo. The service will use Waymo’s autonomous driving technology. GO will provide the mobility platform and rider reach. Nihon Kotsu will contribute taxi operations and local service standards. The launch is planned for 2027. It depends on securing permits and completing validation. The service will start with a small fleet and expand to around 100 vehicles. Riders will book through the GO or Waymo apps. The service aims to complement Tokyo’s existing transport network. It also targets addressing labor shortages and supporting an aging population.
What changed
Waymo operated only in the US with supervised test drives in Tokyo.
What it unlocks
Hailing a fully autonomous, unmanned ride in Tokyo via GO or Waymo apps.
- 2027 launch target
- 100 vehicles at launch
- 15 US cities already served
- 500,000+ trips per week
What you need to act on it
- regulatory approval from Japanese authorities
- completion of technology and operations validation
Sources