Toyota will build Waymo robotaxis for Japan testing in 2027
Toyota will assemble bZ4X robotaxis and integrate Waymo’s autonomous hardware in one factory, with Japan testing planned for 2027.
Robotaxis need a production line as well as a driving system. Toyota and Waymo are bringing those two pieces together, starting with an autonomous bZ4X fleet for Japan.
What happened
On 30 October, the companies announced the next phase of their collaboration. Toyota will manufacture the vehicles and integrate Waymo’s autonomous hardware at its Takaoka plant in Japan. Initial testing and validation are planned for 2027, with deployment in the UK and other Waymo markets intended for later years.
The arrangement builds on their April 2025 preliminary agreement. They also continue to explore autonomous technology for personally owned Toyota vehicles, without announcing a consumer launch.
Why it matters
Installing autonomous hardware during vehicle production could simplify fleet supply compared with modifying cars after assembly. Toyota brings manufacturing capacity; Waymo brings the driving technology and operating experience.
For international expansion, a repeatable vehicle platform is useful alongside the local testing and permissions each market requires.
The bigger picture
The next milestone is a validated fleet that can operate reliably in Japan. A manufacturing partnership advances that work, while commercial service still depends on proving the system locally and securing the necessary approvals.