Partnership launch

Waymo and Toyota will start testing autonomous bZ4X robotaxi fleets in Japan in 2027, with UK testing following later.

Japan rollout plan

The Level 4 bZ4X fleet will anchor Japan's first fully autonomous ride-hailing service using domestically made vehicles.

Vehicle production

Toyota will build the bZ4X at its Takaoka plant in Toyota City, Aichi Prefecture, installing Waymo's autonomous hardware.

Rider-focused features

The robotaxi includes extra rear legroom, automatic doors, power liftgate, and ambient lighting for easier entry.

Waymo safety claim

Waymo co-CEO Dmitri Dolgov stated their technology is up to 20x safer than human drivers in serious crash injuries.

“Toys's commitment to zero traffic accidents resonates deeply with us at Waymo, and we're proud to work together toward safer roads for all. In areas where Waymo operates, we've demonstrated that we are up to 20x safer than human drivers when it comes to serious crash injuries, and our partnership with Toyota will help us bring the safety and convenience of autonomous driving to more people around the world, including key international markets like Japan.”

Toyota's safety focus

Toyota's executive vice president Hiroki Nakajima emphasized scaling safety technology to reach more people globally.

“We are deeply grateful that Waymo, which helped pioneer fully autonomous driving technology, has chosen Toyota as its partner. Safety technology makes the biggest difference when it reaches as many people as possible. This collaboration will help scale that technology and bring it to customers in Japan and beyond through Waymo's ride-hailing service, and in parallel, Toyota will continue to explore how integrating vehicles with traffic infrastructure can make those roads safer still. No single company can achieve the goal of zero traffic accidents alone, but with partners like Waymo, we will get there one step at a time.”

Global expansion plan

Waymo plans to expand the bZ4X fleet to the UK and other international markets after Japan's 2027 launch.

Future tech focus

Toyota and Waymo will also explore autonomous driving for consumer vehicles and road safety improvements.