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Waymo Begins First International Testing Program in Tokyo

The company deploys 25 driver-operated vehicles to map Tokyo’s streets and adapt its technology to local driving conditions, marking a key step toward potential commercialization in Japan.

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Attendees look over a Jaguar I-Pace equipped with a Waymo autonomous driving system at CES 2025, an annual consumer electronics trade show, in Las Vegas, Nevada, U.S., January 7, 2025. REUTERS/Steve Marcus/File Photo
The Waymo logo is displayed during the North American International Auto Show in Detroit, Michigan, U.S., January 8, 2017. REUTERS/Brendan McDermid/File Photo
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Overview

  • Waymo has launched its first international testing initiative in Tokyo, deploying 25 driver-operated Jaguar I-PACE vehicles to gather mapping data and analyze local driving conditions.
  • The testing focuses on adapting to left-hand traffic and navigating Tokyo’s dense urban environment, including its unique road patterns and high pedestrian activity.
  • Waymo is partnering with Nihon Kotsu, Tokyo’s largest taxi operator, and ride-hailing service GO to manage and operate the test vehicles.
  • The company is working closely with local officials, regulators, and safety agencies to ensure a responsible and seamless integration into Tokyo’s transportation infrastructure.
  • While the current phase is focused on data collection, Waymo envisions the possibility of launching a commercial robotaxi service in Tokyo in the future, pending successful testing and regulatory approval.