Wayve, Uber and Nissan Announce Robotaxi Collaboration
International NewsNews
19 March 2026

Wayve, Uber and Nissan Announce Robotaxi Collaboration

Tokyo will host a 2026 robotaxi pilot using Nissan LEAF vehicles powered by Wayve AI and integrated into Uber’s ride-hailing platform.

Partnership Overview

Wayve, Uber and Nissan have signed a memorandum of understanding to collaborate on robotaxi services, beginning with a pilot deployment in Tokyo by late 2026. The project will introduce Nissan LEAF vehicles powered by Wayve’s AI Driver, available to riders through Uber.

Key Highlights

• Pilot Launch: Tokyo pilot to begin in 2026, featuring Nissan LEAF robotaxis integrated with Uber’s ride-hailing platform.

• Uber’s First in Japan: Marks Uber’s entry into autonomous mobility in the Japanese market.

• Global Expansion: Builds on Wayve and Uber’s plans for services in more than ten cities worldwide, including London.

• Safety First: Initial operations will include trained safety operators in vehicles to ensure passenger confidence.

• AI Advantage: Wayve’s system learns from real-world data and adapts to new environments without HD maps, enabling rapid deployment.

• Prototype Revealed: First look at the Nissan LEAF-based robotaxi shared as part of the announcement.

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Why Tokyo Matters

Tokyo is one of the most demanding urban markets globally, with dense traffic, complex road systems and high safety standards. The pilot will demonstrate the resilience of Wayve’s AI Driver in such conditions, paving the way for broader adoption in other challenging cities.

Commitment to Global Mobility

Uber intends to launch the service through a licensed taxi partner in Japan, working closely with local authorities to ensure compliance and safety. The collaboration reflects a shared vision: combining Wayve’s AI technology, Nissan’s cutting-edge vehicles and Uber’s extensive network to scale autonomous mobility worldwide.

Looking Ahead

The announcement reinforces the ambition to deliver safe, intelligent robotaxi services across multiple cities. By uniting expertise in AI, automotive engineering and ride-hailing, Wayve, Nissan and Uber are positioning themselves at the forefront of the autonomous transport revolution.

S

Staff Writer

Reporting from the front lines of the automotive industry, delivering expert analysis and the technical updates that drive the South African motor sector forward.