Autonomous ride-hailing is moving closer to reality in Japan. Wayve, Uber, and Nissan have signed a memorandum of understanding to collaborate on robotaxi development, with plans to launch a pilot service in Tokyo by late 2026.
The proposed service will feature autonomous versions of the Nissan LEAF, equipped with Wayve’s AI-powered autonomous driving technology and accessible through the Uber ride-hailing platform.
First Uber Autonomous Vehicle Partnership in Japan
The agreement marks Uber’s first autonomous vehicle collaboration in Japan and represents another step in its global robotaxi strategy. The company is working with partners to deploy autonomous ride-hailing services in more than ten cities worldwide, including London.
Under the partnership, Wayve’s end-to-end AI driving system will be integrated into Nissan vehicles capable of supporting the company’s “AI Driver.” Once deployed, the robotaxis will be available through Uber’s app, automatically matching riders with autonomous vehicles for everyday trips.
Pilot Phase Will Include Safety Operators
During the early stages of the Tokyo pilot, the vehicles will operate with a trained safety operator inside the car. This approach allows riders to experience robotaxi technology while maintaining oversight during the initial rollout.
The companies say the goal is to deliver a safe, reliable service in one of the world’s most complex urban driving environments. Tokyo’s dense traffic, intricate road network and strict safety standards make it an ideal testbed for autonomous mobility technology.
AI Driver Designed for Real-World Learning
A key component of the project is the Wayve AI Driver, which relies on real-world data rather than detailed pre-mapped environments.
Unlike many autonomous systems that require high-definition maps, Wayve’s technology is designed to learn directly from driving data and adapt to new roads and cities. This approach could allow faster deployment across global markets and in dynamic urban environments like Tokyo.
Wayve CEO Alex Kendall said the project represents a significant milestone for the company’s technology. According to Kendall, Wayve has been testing its system in Japan since early 2025 to better understand the country’s unique road conditions.
Nissan Expands Mobility Innovation Strategy
For Nissan, the partnership builds on ongoing work to integrate advanced AI technologies across its vehicle lineup.
CEO Ivan Espinosa said the collaboration combines Wayve’s AI capabilities, Nissan’s vehicle engineering and Uber’s global platform to move autonomous mobility closer to everyday use.
The initiative aligns with Nissan’s broader vision of bringing intelligent mobility solutions into daily transportation.
Uber Pushes Forward With Global Robotaxi Rollout
Autonomous mobility is becoming an increasingly important part of Uber’s long-term strategy.
Uber CEO Dara Khosrowshahi said the company is focused on expanding partnerships that integrate autonomous vehicles into its platform. After a planned pilot deployment in London, Tokyo is expected to be another key launch market.
Uber plans to introduce the service through a licensed taxi partner in Japan and is currently working with regulators and potential operators to prepare for deployment.
Nissan LEAF Robotaxi Prototype Revealed
As part of the announcement, the companies also provided an early look at a robotaxi prototype based on the Nissan LEAF. The electric vehicle platform will serve as the foundation for the autonomous ride-hailing service.
By combining Wayve’s AI technology, Nissan’s electric vehicles and Uber’s global ride-hailing network, the partners aim to accelerate the rollout of safe autonomous mobility in major cities around the world.
If the Tokyo pilot proves successful, it could pave the way for broader robotaxi deployments in other global markets.
