Toyota and Waymo Set to Launch Driverless bZ4X Fleet in 2027
The Japanese automaker and American tech giant have partnered to bring autonomous driving technology to the bZ4X model, with initial testing set to take place in Japan.
Lede
Toyota and Waymo have announced a significant partnership aimed at launching a fleet of driverless bZ4X vehicles in 2027. This collaboration marks a pivotal moment in the automotive industry, as it combines Toyota's manufacturing prowess with Waymo's advanced self-driving technology.
Context
The bZ4X, part of Toyota's electric vehicle lineup, is set to become a pioneer in the realm of autonomous driving. According to reports, Toyota will integrate Waymo’s cutting-edge self-driving technology into the 2027 model of the bZ4X, which will be produced at the company’s Takaoka plant in Japan. This move underscores Toyota's commitment to innovation and its ambition to lead in the global market for electric and autonomous vehicles.
The decision to prioritize right-hand drive markets such as Japan and the United Kingdom for the initial deployment of these vehicles is noteworthy. It suggests that Toyota and Waymo are keen to establish a strong foothold in regions where the demand for such technology might be particularly high. By focusing on these markets first, the companies aim to gather valuable data and refine their offerings before expanding to other areas.
What We Know
- Toyota will produce 2027 bZ4X models with Waymo's self-driving tech at its Takaoka plant in Japan. 1
- The bZ4X vehicles will undergo initial testing in Japan before being deployed in other right-hand drive countries like the U.K. 1
- Right-hand-drive markets will be prioritized over private vehicle sales. 2
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Verification report
- likely
Toyota will produce 2027 bZ4X models and incorporate Waymo's self-driving tech at its Takaoka plant in Japan.
71% · supported by 1 - likely
The bZ4X vehicles will first be tested in Japan before being deployed in other right-hand drive countries like the U.K.
71% · supported by 1 - unverified
Waymo will test Toyota bZ4X vehicles in Japan starting next year.
51% · supported by 1, contradicted by 1 - unverified
Testing of the Toyota bZ4X robotaxis is scheduled to begin in 2027.
49% · supported by 1, contradicted by 1 - likely
Right-hand-drive markets will be prioritized over private vehicle sales.
70% · supported by 1
