Japan's autonomous-driving sector is accelerating rapidly. Plans have been reported to commercialise robotaxis in Tokyo in 2027, while Toyota is reportedly planning to mass-produce autonomous-driving vehicles that can operate in urban areas in hands-off mode in 2028.
Japan's domestic autonomous-driving sector had lagged behind the US and China, but momentum is building to catch up against a backdrop of advances in AI-based control systems. A key development was the announcement of a strategic partnership between GO, Waymo and Nihon Kotsu concerning the introduction of autonomous taxis in Tokyo.
Toyota Motor is reportedly planning to introduce autonomous-driving technology with advanced driver-assistance capabilities, designated “Level 2++,” into its vehicles from 2028 and move to mass production. It is also reportedly considering introducing Level 4 vehicles for commercial use in 2030.
Waymo has a track record of operating autonomous taxis in the US. According to publicly available materials, it provides more than 500,000 rides per week and is said to demonstrate a higher level of safety than human drivers.
Relevant government ministries and agencies are viewed as supportive of autonomous driving, while the Cabinet's stance on promoting deregulation is also providing a tailwind. As attention focuses on whether Japanese companies can catch up with their US and Chinese counterparts, further progress in autonomous driving and the expansion of deployment examples are expected.