Waymo to Test Autonomous Vehicles in Tokyo

Waymo, the autonomous driving division of Google, has announced that it will commence its first international test on public roads outside of the United States. Starting next week, Waymo will deploy 25 Jaguar I-PACE electric vehicles, driven by human drivers, to map out major areas of Tokyo and gain insights into local infrastructure and driving habits. This initiative marks a significant milestone for Waymo as it expands its operations beyond the U.S. and into the global market.

Nicole Gavel, the head of business development and strategic partnerships at Waymo, emphasized the importance of understanding the unique driving environments and local driving nuances. "For us, it's crucial to understand the differences in driving environments and the unique aspects of local driving," Gavel stated during an event in Tokyo. This understanding will be vital in adapting Waymo's technology to the specific conditions and regulations of Japan.

Waymo is collaborating with local partners, including the taxi company Nihon Kotsu and the taxi application Go, to conduct these tests and provide services. The initial phase of the testing will involve mapping out seven key areas in Tokyo, including Minato and Shibuya districts. Following this mapping phase, Waymo plans to proceed with driver-assisted autonomous driving tests, although the timeline for this next step has not been disclosed.

This expansion into Japan is a strategic move for Waymo, as it seeks to gather data that will enhance its autonomous driving systems and make them more adaptable to various driving conditions and regulations around the world. The insights gained from these tests will be invaluable in paving the way for future expansions into other international markets, solidifying Waymo's position as a leader in the development and deployment of self-driving vehicles on a global scale.