Waymo to launch driverless service in Tokyo by 2027

Waymo is teaming up with Japanese taxi operator Nihon Kotsu and ride-hailing app GO to launch a fully driverless ride-hailing service in Tokyo, with public rides expected to begin in 2027. If launched as planned, the service would be Japan’s first fully autonomous robotaxi operation.

The rollout could also help address a growing problem for Tokyo and Japan in general, where a shrinking pool of professional drivers is putting immense pressure on the transportation sector.

Full commercial launch planned, not trial

The partners outlined the plan in a Waymo blog post dated Monday, September 14, saying the service is intended to operate commercially and not just as a limited pilot. Passengers will be able to book driverless rides through the GO app, which they already use to hail conventional taxis. Waymo’s own app will also support bookings.

GO President Hiroshi Nakajima said users will be able to hail both conventional taxis and autonomous trips with Waymo via the ‘GO’ taxi app, describing the effort as a launch of a full commercial service. Nihon Kotsu President Yasuharu Wakabayashi said the project could help maintain reliable transportation as Japan faces “future driver shortages.” The country’s aging population is expected to deepen the labor shortage, putting further pressure on the supply of professional drivers.

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