Waymo is preparing to launch its autonomous ride-hailing service in Germany, with vehicles expected to begin operating in Munich in the coming weeks before commercial driverless operations are targeted for the end of 2027.
Waymo Prepares Munich Launch
The initial vehicles will operate with trained personnel behind the wheel as Waymo collects data and prepares for autonomous operation in the Bavarian capital.
The company plans to use the initial phase to create high-resolution maps of Munich’s road network and analyse local traffic conditions before adapting its Waymo Driver autonomous driving system for the city.
Waymo is targeting the end of 2027 for the launch of its commercial ride-hailing service without human drivers.
Entry Into Germany
Waymo’s German operations have been taking shape in Munich. Waymo Germany GmbH was registered in the city in June, with its stated business activities including autonomous vehicle ride-hailing and related services.
The company has also begun establishing local operational capabilities and recruiting personnel as it prepares for autonomous mobility services.
Waymo Begins Paid Robotaxi Rides With Zeekr-Built Electric Vans
Waymo said it is discussing the required approvals and licensing arrangements with municipal, state and federal authorities.
If the planned timeline is achieved, Munich would become the first city in the European Union to offer a regular driverless robotaxi service.
The launch would also expand Waymo’s European activities beyond the preparations already underway for a ride-hailing service in London.
Electric Robotaxi Fleet
Waymo plans to operate battery-electric vehicles in Munich, although it has not yet specified which models will be used for the German launch.
Waymo Expands Robotaxi Operations Across California With New CPUC Approval
In the US, the company is expanding its fleet with the Ojai electric van produced by Zeekr. The vehicle uses Waymo’s sixth-generation autonomous driving system and is already transporting paying passengers in San Francisco, Los Angeles and Phoenix.
Experience and Competition
Waymo said its commercial autonomous operations have completed more than 20 million rides and covered more than 350 million kilometres without a human driver.
The company also reports lower accident rates compared with human drivers, although the data comes from its existing operating areas and may not directly reflect conditions in Munich.
Waymo is expected to face competition in the city. Uber and Israeli AI company Autobrains have also announced robotaxi programmes targeting Munich.
IIHS Study Finds Waymo Robotaxis Recorded Fewer Crashes Than Human Drivers
German and Bavarian officials have expressed support for autonomous mobility development, citing the region’s automotive and artificial intelligence capabilities and efforts to reduce regulatory barriers.