Waymo, the self-driving vehicle unit of Alphabet, plans to commence testing its autonomous cars in Tokyo in early 2025.

This initiative marks the company’s first international expansion outside the United States.

The company is partnering with Nihon Kotsu, Japan’s largest taxi operator, along with the taxi app GO to facilitate the trials.

Future testing is planned on a closed track in the US, designed to mimic Japan’s driving conditions.

Recent Waymo developments