Toyota bZ4X to become Waymo robotaxis for Japan and Britain
The first vehicles will be tested in Japan, after which they are planned to be introduced to right-hand drive markets, including the United Kingdom.
Toyota will produce the bZ4X crossovers of the 2027 model year and install Waymo’s autonomous driving system at its plant in Takaoka, Japan. Testing of self-driving cars in the country will begin in 2027.
Waymo has been testing autonomous Jaguar I-Pace vehicles in London for several months and expects to launch its robotaxi service there after obtaining the necessary permits.
The partners will also continue exploring the possibility of using Waymo technology in Toyota’s personal vehicles. Real-world operational experience with self-driving cars is planned to be used to enhance road safety. According to Toyota Executive Vice President Hiroki Nakajima, the automaker will also consider opportunities for vehicle interaction with road infrastructure.
