Uber partners with Hinomaru Kotsu for Tokyo robotaxi pilot

Uber Technologies has entered into a partnership with Hinomaru Kotsu to conduct robotaxi pilot operations in Tokyo, scheduled to begin in the second half of 2026. The initiative is based on a memorandum of understanding signed in March 2026 between Uber, Wayve, and Nissan Motor Co., Ltd.

The pilot will utilize Nissan Leaf vehicles equipped with Wayve’s AI Driver technology. Under the agreement, Hinomaru Kotsu will serve as the licensed operator responsible for vehicle management, depot operations, maintenance, cleaning, and charging. Uber will provide its global ride-hailing platform and operational support tools to facilitate the service.

To comply with Japanese regulations requiring licensed taxi operators to manage passenger transport, Hinomaru Kotsu will oversee actual operations. As part of a phased approach toward fully driverless operation, Hinomaru Kotsu employees will act as safety drivers during the initial stages of the pilot to ensure security in Tokyo’s complex road environment. The collaboration aims to address social challenges such as driver shortages through advanced mobility technology.