Alphabet's Waymo to Launch Driverless Taxi Service in Tokyo by 2027

Key Facts

1Alphabet's Waymo, along with GO and Nihon Kotsu, aim to launch Japan's first fully autonomous commercial taxi service in Tokyo in 2027.

In a move reflecting the accelerating global race for autonomous driving technology, Alphabet's Waymo unit has announced plans to enter the Japanese market. According to Reuters reports, the company aims to partner with local firms GO and Nihon Kotsu to launch Tokyo's first fully autonomous commercial taxi service by 2027. This partnership marks a significant milestone in Waymo's strategy to expand its commercial operations internationally and deploy its technology in complex urban environments.

This expansion comes as big tech companies navigate varying market dynamics, with Alphabet continuing to bolster its technology portfolio to compete with peers in AI and smart mobility. According to market data, Alphabet (GOOGL) shares closed at $349.39 on September 14, 2026, while other tech giants saw mixed performance, with Apple (AAPL) closing at $333.08 and Microsoft (MSFT) at $505.41 on the same date.

Looking ahead, investors are monitoring Waymo's ability to meet the 2027 target timeline amid expected regulatory challenges in Japan. GOOGL stock remained near its September 14, 2026, closing level after hitting a day high of $349.91 and a low of $342.14. With no immediate sector-related economic catalysts in the upcoming calendar, focus will remain on the operational developments of this strategic partnership.