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Waymo to Launch Fully Autonomous Robotaxis in Tokyo in 2027

Asia Push Begins in Tokyo

Written and analysed by Ryusei Hosono • • Updated: September 15, 2026
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A stylized flat illustration shows a white autonomous robotaxi, its lidar sensor pod mounted on the roof, driving across a minimalist road. The scene blends classic Japanese imagery with modern technology: a red cherry blossom branch hangs in the upper left, a five-storied pagoda stands on the left, and on the right a large red sun rises behind a navy-blue Tokyo skyline that includes Tokyo Skytree. Rendered in a limited palette of cream, navy, and red, the artwork evokes traditional woodblock prints while presenting the self-driving car as its central subject.

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Waymo to Launch Fully Autonomous Robotaxis in Tokyo in 2027

Table of contents:

    TL;DR

    Alphabet's Waymo will partner with Japanese taxi firms Go and Nihon Kotsu to launch a fully autonomous robotaxi service in Tokyo in 2027. The companies plan to start with a small fleet and gradually expand to 100 vehicles.

    Alphabet's Waymo announced on Tuesday that it will launch a fully autonomous robotaxi service in Tokyo in 2027, as the US market leader in autonomous driving continues its global expansion into Asia.

    Partnership With Japanese Taxi Firms

    Waymo will partner with Japanese taxi operators Go Inc. and Nihon Kotsu Co. to bring its robotaxis to Tokyo. The announcement marks the company's plan to extend its autonomous ride-hailing technology to Japan as part of its broader international push.

    Planned Fleet Rollout

    According to the announcement, the companies have laid out a phased approach to introducing the service in the Japanese capital:

    • The service will be fully autonomous from launch in Tokyo in 2027.
    • The companies expect to begin operations with a small fleet of vehicles.
    • The fleet is then set to expand gradually to 100 vehicles.

    A Key Step in Waymo's Global Expansion

    Waymo, the autonomous vehicle business of Alphabet Inc., has been steadily extending its robotaxi operations beyond the United States. The Tokyo launch represents the company's continued global expansion and its move to establish a presence in Asia, with Japan set to become the next market for its fully autonomous driving technology.

    Sources and further reading

    1. The Japan Times — Waymo to start Tokyo robotaxi service next year in Asia push - The Japan Times
    2. Bloomberg — Waymo to Start Tokyo Robotaxi Service Next Year in Asia Push
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