GoKawiilWaymo and Toyota to test autonomous bZ4X robotaxis in Japan in 2027
Toyota and Waymo announced plans to begin testing a fleet of autonomous Toyota bZ4X electric vehicles in Japan in 2027, building on a preliminary partnership the companies struck in April 2025. Toyota will manufacture and equip the bZ4X with Waymo's self-driving hardware at its Takaoka plant in Aichi Prefecture, and the companies plan to later expand testing to the UK and other right-hand drive markets.
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The deal pairs Toyota's manufacturing scale with Waymo's autonomous driving software, which could help both companies push Level 4 self-driving technology into new international markets beyond the US. It also builds on Waymo's existing Tokyo operations, where it has been testing Jaguar I-PACE vehicles and plans a fully autonomous ride-hailing launch next year, suggesting Japan could become a key testing ground for its global expansion.
- Toyota and Waymo will test autonomous bZ4X EVs in Japan starting in 2027.
- Toyota will build and equip the vehicles with Waymo tech at its Takaoka plant.
- Expansion to the UK and other right-hand drive markets is planned after Japan.
Source: engadget.com — Mariella Moon, 2026-10-30
Published there as: “Waymo and Toyota will soon start testing their robotaxis in Japan”
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