Waymo Coming to Tokyo! The Dawn of Self-Driving Taxi Services: Future and Challenges

Google's self-driving taxi service, Waymo, is set to launch in Tokyo in 2025.This news has generated significant buzz. Through partnerships with the taxi app "GO" and Nihon Kotsu, could self-driving taxis finally become a reality in Japan? Self-driving technology is advancing rapidly, with demonstrations and service rollouts underway worldwide. With Waymo's Tokyo launch, let's explore the current state and future of self-driving taxis, and the challenges Japan faces.

What are Self-Driving Taxis?

As the name suggests, a self-driving taxi isa taxi without a driver.It uses AI (artificial intelligence), sensors, and cameras to automatically transport passengers to their destination. Currently, various companies worldwide are fiercely competing in the development of self-driving taxis, and some regions have already begun commercial services.

Vehicles equipped with advanced self-driving technology known asLevel 4 autonomous drivingare currently the mainstream, operating driverlessly within specific areas. For example, Waymo and Cruise in the US offer self-driving taxi services in San Francisco and Phoenix.

Waymo's Goals in Tokyo

Waymo was established in 2016 as a spin-off of Google's self-driving car project. It's currently known as one of the most advanced self-driving technology companies in the US, and its technological prowess is considered world-class.

Waymo chose Tokyo because ofthe size of the Japanese taxi marketandthe high level of interest in self-driving technology.Japan is one of the world's leading taxi nations, and the demand for self-driving taxis is expected to be high. The government is also actively supporting the development of self-driving technology, making it an attractive market for Waymo.

In the initial phase, starting in 2025, Waymo plans to introduce its self-driving cars in central Tokyo, with Nihon Kotsu drivers operating the vehicles during public road test runs. The ultimate goal is to achieve a fully autonomous taxi service.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Self-Driving Taxis

Self-driving taxis are expected to offer the following advantages:

• Addressing Labor Shortages: Amidst a severe driver shortage, self-driving taxis are expected to significantly contribute to alleviating this problem.
• Improved Safety: Autonomous driving systems have the potential to reduce accidents caused by human error and improve safety.
• Enhanced Convenience: 24/7 operation will enhance user convenience.
• Traffic Congestion Mitigation: Self-driving cars, by selecting optimal routes and ensuring smooth operation, are expected to help alleviate traffic congestion.
• Cost Reduction: Reductions in labor costs, fuel costs, and other expenses are anticipated.

On the other hand, the following disadvantages should be considered:

• Liability Issues in Accidents: In the event of an accident involving a self-driving car, the determination of liability may be ambiguous.
• Cybersecurity Risks: There is a risk of hacking into the autonomous driving system.
• Impact on Employment: The widespread adoption of self-driving taxis could lead to job losses for taxi drivers.
• High Initial Costs: Implementing self-driving cars involves substantial initial investment.
• Lagging Legislation: Current legislation on autonomous driving is inadequate.

Challenges for Self-Driving Taxis in Japan

Various initiatives are underway in Japan to realize self-driving taxis. However, several challenges remain before practical implementation.

• Legislation: Legislation concerning autonomous driving is still insufficient, and various restrictions apply to driving on public roads.
• Infrastructure Development: The development of necessary roads and communication infrastructure for autonomous driving is also required.
• Social Acceptance: It is necessary to increase public understanding and acceptance of self-driving taxis.
• Ensuring Safety: Ensuring the safety of self-driving cars is one of the most critical challenges.
• Ethical Issues: There may be instances where self-driving cars need to make ethical judgments.

The Future of Self-Driving Taxis

Self-driving taxis hold the potential to significantly transform our lives. If the challenges are overcome, and safe and convenient self-driving taxis become a reality, it will revolutionize transportation.

In Japan, Waymo's Tokyo launch is expected to accelerate the development of self-driving taxis. The government is actively supporting the development of self-driving technology and aims to launch driverless taxi services in limited areas by 2025.

For self-driving taxis to become widespread, it is necessary to address various challenges, including technological advancements, legislation, infrastructure development, and increased social acceptance. Through the cooperation of all stakeholders in tackling these challenges, we can pave the way for the future of self-driving taxis.