Toyota and Waymo are preparing to begin testing autonomous robotaxis in Japan in 2027, advancing their partnership to develop self-driving ride-hailing services using the Toyota bZ4X electric crossover. The project is expected to introduce Japan’s first domestically manufactured fully autonomous ride-hailing service before expanding to other major markets.
Toyota and Waymo Plan Japan Testing in 2027
The companies announced their strategic collaboration 18 months ago and have now outlined the next phase of their autonomous driving initiative.
Testing and validation of the autonomous Toyota bZ4X will begin in Japan next year. The specialized vehicles will be manufactured at Toyota’s Takaoka plant in Toyota City, Japan, with vehicle production and the integration of autonomous technology taking place under one roof.
The partnership combines Toyota’s manufacturing capabilities with expertise in autonomous vehicle development.
Toyota aims to provide more convenient transportation, particularly for people with mobility difficulties, while reducing accidents caused by human error. The companies also plan to continue developing autonomous technology for personally owned Toyota vehicles.
Toyota bZ4X Gets New Features for Robotaxi Duty
The Toyota bZ4X, known as the Toyota bZ in the United States, is preparing for a new role as an autonomous ride-hailing vehicle.
Although the electric crossover struggled to gain momentum in the U.S. initially, sales of the renamed bZ have increased 103.4% so far this year following updates introduced for the 2026 model year.
The robotaxi version will receive several enhancements focused on passenger comfort and accessibility, including additional rear legroom and features not available on the standard bZ.
These upgrades will include automatic doors, a power liftgate and special ambient lighting designed to make entering and exiting the vehicle more convenient.
The autonomous crossover will also incorporate Waymo’s self-driving technology, which has a reported 93% satisfaction rate.
Toyota executive vice president Hiroki Nakajima said the collaboration will help expand access to safety technology through autonomous ride-hailing services in Japan and other markets.
The company will also continue exploring how integrating vehicles with traffic infrastructure could make roads safer.
Waymo Robotaxi Expansion to the UK and Other Markets
After testing and validation are completed in Japan, Toyota and Waymo expect to launch the autonomous bZ4X fleet in the country before expanding to the United Kingdom.
The initial rollout will prioritize right-hand-drive markets. Other locations where Waymo already operates are expected to follow in the coming years.
Toyota has not provided a specific timeline for when customers in the United States could use the autonomous vehicles.
Autonomous Technology Could Reach Toyota Owners
Beyond the robotaxi service, the partnership could also help advance autonomous driving technology for personally owned Toyota vehicles.
Both companies intend to continue exploring ways to integrate self-driving systems into consumer vehicles. Experience gained through the bZ4X robotaxi project is expected to support that effort in the years ahead.
The collaboration will initially focus on launching autonomous ride-hailing services in Japan, with plans to expand into additional markets as testing and validation progress.
