Waymo robotaxi testing in Toronto is moving forward after Alphabet’s autonomous driving company received approval under Ontario’s Automated Vehicle Pilot Program. The expansion marks Waymo’s first entry into Canada, with commercial passenger service targeted for 2028.
According to Waymo’s official announcement, the company will initially use human-driven vehicles to create high-definition maps of Toronto’s streets. Autonomous road testing will follow, with trained safety operators behind the wheel. Waymo plans to remove those operators before eventually offering rides to the public.
Waymo Robotaxi Testing in Toronto Expands Global Plans
The Canadian expansion follows rapid growth across the United States. Two years ago, Waymo operated commercially in just three markets and did not offer freeway service. Its expansion accelerated in 2025 with launches in Austin and Atlanta.
Waymo now operates commercial robotaxis in 15 U.S. cities and is testing internationally in London and Tokyo. TechAmerica.ai recently detailed its growing fleet and operations in coverage of Waymo’s expansion.
Toronto will present new challenges for the company’s autonomous driving technology, particularly during harsh winter conditions. Snow, ice and changing road visibility will test the system’s ability to navigate unfamiliar environments. Waymo says its phased testing process will help validate performance before driverless operations begin.
Waymo co-CEO Tekedra Mawakana described entering Canada as an important milestone in the company’s international expansion. The company is also working with local accessibility organizations as it prepares for passenger service.
Element Fleet Management to Support Toronto Operations
Waymo has partnered with Toronto-based Element Fleet Management to provide fleet management and operational support. The partnership is expected to create hundreds of jobs over time. Roles will include vehicle maintenance, validation driving, customer service and other operational functions.
The company has increasingly relied on third-party fleet operators as its robotaxi network grows. It also recently secured $5 billion in debt financing to support further expansion.
Toronto residents will initially see Waymo vehicles operating with human drivers rather than carrying paying passengers. The planned 2028 commercial launch remains dependent on successful testing and further regulatory approvals.
