Japan Aims to Launch First Fully Driverless Taxis in 2027

Sep 15, 2026 | News On Japan

TOKYO - GO, Waymo and Nihon Kotsu said they aim to launch Japan's first commercial fully driverless taxi service in Tokyo during 2027, using Level 4 autonomous vehicles that can operate without a driver on board under specified conditions.

The companies have been conducting public-road trials in seven Tokyo wards since April 2025. Autonomous test vehicles are currently operating with Nihon Kotsu drivers on board.

The companies said they will place safety as their highest priority while gradually introducing autonomous taxis, with the fleet eventually expected to reach around 100 vehicles.

Source: TBS

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Japan Aims to Launch First Fully Driverless Taxis in 2027

GO, Waymo and Nihon Kotsu said they aim to launch Japan's first commercial fully driverless taxi service in Tokyo during 2027, using Level 4 autonomous vehicles that can operate without a driver on board under specified conditions.

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