Toyota Motor Corp. announced that it will launch Japan’s first driverless taxis in 2027, working together with Waymo, the self‑driving unit of Alphabet. The plan marks a clear move from testing labs to real streets.

The taxis will run at Level 4 autonomous driving, meaning the system can handle all driving tasks under defined conditions. Waymo’s self‑driving software will be fitted into Toyota’s bZ4X electric SUV.

Toyota will build the bZ4X at its Takaoka Plant in the city of Toyota, Aichi Prefecture. The company also plans to sell the driverless models in Britain, where right‑hand‑drive cars are standard, just like in Japan.

Looking ahead, Toyota intends to start producing passenger cars equipped with its own self‑driving system in 2028, using artificial‑intelligence technology it has developed internally. This step will expand the use of autonomous features beyond the taxi service.

Toyota Executive Vice President Hiroki Nakajima said the collaboration with Waymo will significantly advance technological development. Waymo will also partner with Tokyo‑based Go Inc. and Nihon Kotsu to launch new services in Tokyo in 2027, reinforcing the broader rollout.