Waymo Plans Robotaxi Launch in Munich by 2027

Waymo is preparing to launch a robotaxi service in Munich, Germany, expanding the Alphabet-owned autonomous vehicle company’s international ambitions.

The company said it has established operations in Germany and will begin the required steps before commercial service, including street mapping, autonomous vehicle testing, and regulatory approval. Waymo said Munich will become part of its broader effort to bring autonomous ride-hailing technology to new markets.

Waymo begins mapping and testing in Munich

As it has done in other cities with robotaxi operations, Waymo will first manually drive vehicles through Munich to create detailed maps of local roads and driving conditions.

The company will then test its autonomous vehicles with human safety drivers behind the wheel before moving toward fully driverless operations. During this stage, Waymo typically offers rides to employees, media members, and guests.

After completing testing and receiving regulatory approval, Waymo plans to begin limited robotaxi service before expanding access to the wider public.

Germany provides a framework for autonomous driving

Waymo said it is working with Germany’s Federal Motor Transport Authority, state authorities, and local officials. The company expects commercial ride-hailing operations in Munich to begin toward the end of 2027, pending approvals.

Germany became the first country in the European Union to establish a legal framework for Level 4 autonomous driving after lawmakers approved legislation allowing driverless vehicles on public roads.

Level 4 autonomy means a vehicle’s automated driving system can handle all driving tasks under specific conditions or in specific environments without expecting a human driver to take control.

Waymo enters a growing European autonomous vehicle market

Germany has become an important testing market for autonomous vehicle developers. Several companies, including Mobileye and Volkswagen, have received permits to test autonomous vehicles in the country, according to Germany’s Federal Motor Transport Authority.

Waymo does not currently hold a testing permit in Germany, while many other companies operating there have Level 3 approvals. Level 3 systems can handle driving tasks under certain conditions but require a human driver to remain ready to take over.

Waymo is also preparing to expand into other international markets. The company has announced plans for commercial robotaxi operations in London, where it will compete with other autonomous driving companies and partnerships developing self-driving services.