Uber and Hinomaru Kotsu to launch Tokyo robotaxi pilot in late 2026

Uber Technologies (NYSE: UBER) has signed an operational partnership agreement with Tokyo-based taxi operator Hinomaru Kotsu Co., Ltd. to manage fleet operations for an autonomous vehicle pilot in Tokyo, scheduled to launch in late 2026, according to a press release from the company.

The agreement designates Hinomaru Kotsu as the authorized fleet operator, responsible for depot operations, vehicle cleaning, maintenance, inspections, charging, and vehicle uptime. Uber will provide its ridehailing app and operational support tools to match riders with vehicles.

The pilot builds on a memorandum of understanding signed March 12, 2026, by Uber, artificial intelligence driving technology company Wayve, and Nissan Motor Co., Ltd. The deployment will use Nissan LEAF vehicles equipped with Wayve's AI Driver technology.

Under Japanese law, passenger transport services must be operated by licensed taxi companies. In the initial phase, Hinomaru Kotsu drivers will serve as on-board safety operators. Fully driverless operations would require separate regulatory approval.

Sarfraz Maredia, Uber's Global Head of Autonomous Mobility and Delivery, cited Tokyo's complex driving environment and noted the importance of Hinomaru Kotsu's operational experience, Nissan's automotive engineering, and Wayve's AI technology to the project.

Hinomaru Kotsu President Kazutaka Tomita said the company aims to build an operational framework where human-driven taxis and robotaxis complement each other, and referenced driver shortages as a factor motivating the initiative.

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