GO Inc., Waymo and Nihon Kotsu Co., Ltd. have agreed to a strategic partnership aimed at commercializing autonomous taxis in Tokyo in 2027. The companies have been conducting public-road testing in 7 wards of Tokyo since 2025 and plan to begin fully driverless operations in stages.
GO, Waymo and Nihon Kotsu have entered into a strategic partnership aimed at commercializing autonomous taxis in Tokyo. The companies are targeting the launch of fully driverless commercial operations by the end of 2027. Public-road testing has been under way in 7 wards of Tokyo since 2025, and autonomous-driving tests currently being conducted with Nihon Kotsu drivers on board are progressing smoothly. The companies plan to transition to fully driverless operations for services offered to the general public. The initial service is expected to involve approximately 100 vehicles, with rides available through both the GO and Waymo apps.
Under the agreement, the 3 companies will each assume their respective roles. GO will oversee collaboration with local taxi operators and service delivery through the GO app. Waymo will provide the operational infrastructure, vehicle management and technical expertise, and rides will also be available through the Waymo app. As Tokyo’s largest taxi operator, Nihon Kotsu will be responsible for operational management and the running of taxi offices.