GO, Waymo and 日本交通 have announced a strategic partnership to commercialize autonomous taxis in Tokyo. The companies plan to begin commercial operations using fully driverless vehicles in central Tokyo at a scale of approximately 100 vehicles during 2027.
GO, Waymo and 日本交通 agreed on 15 September 2026 to form a strategic partnership aimed at commercializing autonomous taxis in Tokyo. The companies are targeting the launch of fully driverless commercial taxi operations in central Tokyo during 2027.
Public-road testing is currently continuing in 7 wards, centered on Minato and Shinjuku, with verification of the application of autonomous driving technology being conducted with a 日本交通 driver on board.
The initial vehicles will be Jaguar I-PACE vehicles equipped with Waymo Driver. Fares are expected to be set under Japan’s existing authorized taxi fare system.
The companies will clearly divide their responsibilities. GO will handle service design and local partnerships through its ride-hailing app, Waymo will be responsible for autonomous driving technology and the vehicle management platform, and 日本交通 will oversee on-site operations management, maintenance and inspections, and depot operations.
The official launch date is expected to be determined after safety verification and the acquisition of approvals from the relevant government ministries and agencies.