Waymo's Robotaxi Expansion: Tokyo's First Autonomous Vehicles

Waymo Expands into Japan with Robotaxi Launch in Tokyo

Waymo, the self-driving car company known for its advanced autonomous technology, is taking its next major step in international expansion with a launch in Tokyo, Japan. Partnering with Nihon Kotsu, Tokyo's largest taxi operator, and GO, a prominent Japanese taxi platform, Waymo aims to bring its innovative robotaxi technology to the bustling streets of Japan's capital. The development marks a significant moment in the world of autonomous driving as Waymo makes strides towards integrating its technology into real-world city environments outside the United States.

“Cherry blossom season marks new beginnings in Japan, and this spring, it also signals Waymo’s arrival,” Waymo writes.

Waymo's vehicles are not yet fully autonomous, as human drivers from Nihon Kotsu will take control for the initial phase. These vehicles, equipped with advanced sensors and cameras, will be used to gather 3D mapping data of key areas in Tokyo, including Minato, Shinjuku, Shibuya, Chiyoda, Chūō, Shinagawa, and Kōtō. This mapping process is crucial to adapting Waymo's system to Tokyo's unique traffic patterns and road features. The company plans to use this data to refine its autonomous technology in preparation for a fully driverless future.

Waymo’s strategic partnership with Nihon Kotsu involves the creation of a dedicated depot for the robotaxi fleet and training sessions for drivers and staff. This training ensures that Nihon Kotsu’s team is well-prepared to manage autonomous vehicle operations, which is essential as the technology becomes integrated into Japan’s transportation ecosystem.

In addition to operational preparations, Waymo and its partners are focusing on community outreach to ensure local acceptance and understanding of the new technology. Efforts include collaborating with local government agencies, organizations, and the general public to inform them about the benefits of autonomous driving and the safety measures that will be implemented.

Several notable figures in Japan have commented on Waymo's entry into the market. Ichiro Kawanabe, Chairman of GO and Board Director of Nihon Kotsu, praised the potential of autonomous vehicles to address challenges posed by Japan's aging population and labor shortage. He believes that Waymo’s technology will play a critical role in ensuring sustainable and reliable mobility in the future.

Ichiro Kawanabe, Chairman of GO, Board Director of Nihon Kotsu and Chairman of the Japan Taxi Association:

"I took my first ride with Waymo in Phoenix a year and a half ago and was amazed that there was really no one in the driver’s seat. That was the moment I was convinced that autonomous driving technology could absolutely benefit Japan. It will help ensure mobility service in the future of Japan, with the growing aging population and labor shortage."

Yasuharu Wakabayashi, President of Nihon Kotsu, emphasized the importance of leveraging the company’s operational experience to integrate autonomous vehicles into Japan’s taxi services. He also highlighted the potential for Waymo’s robotaxis to alleviate Japan’s ongoing driver shortages.

Yasuharu Wakabayashi, President of Nihon Kotsu:

"Nihon Kotsu crews have trained in the U.S. and are well-prepared to begin introducing Waymo’s vehicles to Tokyo. Nihon Kotsu, as a taxi operator, is proud to leverage its operational expertise as we help drive the introduction of autonomous driving technology in Japan by operating the vehicles."

Yoichi Kise, President and CEO of East Japan Railway Company, also expressed his excitement about the arrival of Waymo’s robotaxis in Tokyo. He underscored the potential for collaboration with other transportation systems, such as linking the robotaxis with Japan’s efficient train network to create a seamless travel experience.

Yoichi Kise, President and CEO of East Japan Railway Company:

"We have great respect for Waymo choosing Tokyo as the site for their first international city for testing, and also for Nihon Kotsu and GO’s forward-looking approach. I personally rode in a Waymo autonomous robotaxi in the U.S. last year and was very impressed by its consistent and safe driving technology."

With Waymo's autonomous vehicles beginning to test in Tokyo, the city is poised to become one of the first major global cities to introduce robotaxi services. This collaboration marks a major milestone in the development of autonomous driving technology and signals the beginning of a new era for urban transportation in Japan.