Waymo launches controversial robotaxi tests in Tokyo next year

In early 2025, an innovative move will take place as Waymo, a subsidiary of Alphabet, begins testing its autonomous vehicle technology in Tokyo, Japan. This will mark the first time Waymo's robotaxis will operate on public roads outside the United States, signifying a pivotal expansion of the company's global presence. The decision to undertake testing in such a densely populated and complex environment as Tokyo emphasizes Waymo's commitment to advancing its technology to meet various challenges posed by different city infrastructures. The implementation of this venture is part of Waymo's ongoing 'road trips' initiative, which aims to evaluate its autonomous systems in diverse urban settings. Testing locations in the U.S. have included cities like Miami and Las Vegas, where specific scenarios such as heavy rainfall or extreme heat were explored. Now, Tokyo presents distinct challenges, including left-hand driving and a high-density urban layout, which differ significantly from conditions in the U.S. To facilitate its entry into the Japanese market, Waymo has partnered with local entities such as the taxi-hailing app GO and taxi company Nihon Kotsu. Nihon Kotsu's role includes overseeing the management and servicing of Waymo's fleet, which will initially involve manual operation by company drivers to map critical areas in Tokyo. These areas include well-known districts such as Minato, Shinjuku, Shibuya, Chiyoda, Chūō, Shinagawa, and Kōtō. The collaboration with Nihon Kotsu is essential to ensuring the successful adaptation and integration of the autonomous vehicles. Eventually, some of these vehicles will operate autonomously, albeit with a human operator present in the driver's seat during the initial phases of testing. The goal is to assess the robust capabilities of Waymo's self-driving Jaguar I-Pace vehicles within the confines of Tokyo's intricate roadways, potentially paving the way for a broader rollout of autonomous transportation in Japan. The pilot program emphasizes Waymo’s overall strategic direction to establish a significant foothold in international markets, showcasing the company's aspirations to redefine urban mobility in increasingly crowded cities worldwide.