On April 14, Waymo will embark on a groundbreaking journey by initiating tests of its advanced robotaxi technology outside the boundaries of the United States for the very first time. According to a report from Yomiuri Shimbun, the company plans to deploy a fleet of 25 state-of-the-art electric Jaguar I-PACE vehicles in the vibrant city of Tokyo as part of the initial phase of its testing program. While Waymo is excited about this expansion, the company is exercising caution and will not operate these vehicles in a fully autonomous mode just yet; a human driver will remain behind the wheel during this phase. Professional drivers from the renowned Tokyo taxi company Nihon Kotsu Co. will be responsible for navigating the cars through several districts, including Chiyoda, Minato, Shinjuku, and four additional wards in the bustling Japanese capital.

The sophisticated cameras and radars integrated into the I-PACE vehicles will meticulously gather data about Tokyo’s unique roadways, which are often narrower compared to those typically found in the United States. This data collection will provide Waymo with invaluable insights regarding local infrastructure, various road conditions, and the distinct driving behaviors exhibited by local residents. “It’s crucial for us to comprehend the differences in the driving environment and what makes the driving experience here unique,” stated Nicole Gavel, Waymo’s Senior Director, during an event held in the city. It is essential for Waymo to adapt its software to accommodate the unique driving conditions and regulatory framework present in the capital, as highlighted by Gavel, who noted that while the company is currently focused on the testing phase, it has aspirations for establishing a business presence in Tokyo in the future.

However, the road ahead is likely to be lengthy: Following the initial mapping phase, Waymo will need to undertake autonomous driving tests with a driver present in the vehicle, and subsequently, tests without any driver on board, marking a significant step towards fully autonomous transportation.