Hinomaru Kotsu to run Uber robotaxi trial service

2026-08-13

Operations and vehicle management split

Uber Japan, a unit of U.S.-based Uber Technologies in Tokyo's Minato ward, said on the 13th it will work with Hinomaru Kotsu of Tokyo's Bunkyo ward on autonomous taxis, or robotaxis. Hinomaru Kotsu will serve as the operating entity and will also handle vehicle management and maintenance.

Trial service planned for Tokyo in latter half of 2026

Uber, together with Nissan Motor and others, plans to start a robotaxi trial service in Tokyo in the latter half of 2026. The service will be operated as part of Hinomaru Kotsu's taxi business, with the company responsible for vehicle operations management, charging, maintenance and depot operations.

Safety to be ensured with staff onboard

A Hinomaru Kotsu driver will ride along during the trial service. President Kazutaka Tomita said: 'We aim to make the most of the safety management and operating know-how we have built up over many years, and to build an operating structure in which staffed taxis and robotaxis can each play to their strengths.'

Partnership with British startup in March

In March, Uber partnered with Nissan and British autonomous driving startup Wayve Technologies. The trial service will use Nissan's Leaf electric vehicle equipped with Wayve's artificial intelligence for autonomous driving. Uber will handle the ride-hailing app and operational support.

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