Quick Summary
- A memorandum of understanding has been signed between Uber, Nissan, and UK-based startup Wayve to bring robotaxis to Tokyo.
- Launch timing targets late 2026, featuring Nissan’s LEAF EV equipped with Wayve’s AI driving technology, accessible through Uber’s app.
- Safety operators with training will remain in vehicles throughout the early deployment stage.
- The agreement represents Uber’s inaugural autonomous vehicle collaboration in Japan, contributing to expansion across more than 10 cities worldwide.
- Wayve secured $1.2 billion in Series D funding, achieving an $8.6 billion valuation.
Shares of Uber (UBER) climbed 3.61% following the announcement of a three-way collaboration with Nissan (NSANY) and UK autonomous driving technology firm Wayve to bring robotaxi operations to Tokyo.
The trio formalized their commitment through a memorandum of understanding focused on developing and launching the service, targeting late 2026 for the Tokyo pilot program.
Wayve’s end-to-end AI autonomous driving platform will be integrated into Nissan’s LEAF electric vehicle. Customers will access rides via Uber’s established ride-hailing application.
A trained safety operator will remain present in each vehicle during the initial rollout phase. The partners characterized this approach as prioritizing responsible technology introduction.
Wayve began testing its platform in Japan at the start of 2025. These trials concentrated on adapting to the nation’s roadways, recognized for intricate configurations and rigorous safety requirements.
Uber CEO Dara Khosrowshahi highlighted that the Tokyo pilot follows a London launch already in development, positioning it within a broader international expansion strategy. Operations are scheduled across more than 10 cities globally.
This partnership represents Uber’s first autonomous vehicle agreement in Japan. The company plans to execute the launch through a licensed taxi operator and remains in the selection process for that partner.
Nissan CEO Ivan Espinosa described the collaboration as an extension of ongoing work with Wayve on AI capabilities for its vehicle range. He characterized the Tokyo pilot as a logical progression of that partnership.
Wayve Secures $1.2B to Accelerate Worldwide Expansion
Wayve completed a $1.2 billion Series D funding round last month. The financing established an $8.6 billion post-money valuation for the company.
The investor consortium features Uber, Nissan, Microsoft (MSFT), Nvidia (NVDA), Mercedes-Benz (MBGAF), and Stellantis (STLA), alongside SoftBank Group. The backing represents a diverse combination of technology and automotive industry leaders.
Wayve CEO Alex Kendall emphasized that the Tokyo collaboration enables the company to introduce its technology responsibly while gathering insights from actual deployment conditions.
Nissan’s Contribution to the Partnership
Nissan’s LEAF EV provides the foundation vehicle for the pilot program. The vehicle will integrate directly with Uber’s platform after Wayve’s system installation.
Espinosa stated that Nissan aims to deliver “mobility intelligence to everyday life” and views the Tokyo pilot as a tangible demonstration of that vision.
Nissan (NSANY) shares advanced 1.25% following the announcement.
Uber stock finished the trading session up 3.61% on the day the collaboration was revealed.
