Waymo and Toyota partner to build autonomous robotaxis

Starting next year, the companies will initiate testing of the autonomous bZ4X in Japan. While the focus remains on building a fleet for ride-hailing services, the partnership aims to eventually support right-hand drive markets, specifically the U.K. Waymo currently operates test vehicles in London using Jaguar I-Pace models, but the integration of Toyota hardware signals a shift toward scaling operations with a dedicated manufacturer.

Beyond robotaxis, the companies are exploring the application of Waymo’s software in personally owned Toyota vehicles. Hiroki Nakajima, executive vice president of Toyota, noted that the collaboration also intends to utilize data from Waymo’s real-world operations to improve traffic safety and infrastructure integration. This arrangement functions as a strategic supply deal, allowing Waymo to diversify its fleet while Toyota secures a foothold in the autonomous transport sector.