Hello Toronto! Waymo is En Route

Waymo confirmed its expansion into Canada with a phased plan to introduce a fully autonomous ride-hailing service in Toronto by 2028. The company will start with manual driving on local streets to validate the Waymo Driver’s adaptation to Toronto’s unique driving conditions. High-definition mapping and safety testing with trained specialists will precede any passenger service. This approach prioritizes rigorous validation before scaling operations.

Waymo’s co-CEO Tekedra Mawakana highlighted the significance of entering Toronto, describing the city as innovative and forward-looking. The company emphasized its commitment to safer streets and accessible mobility, framing the expansion as part of its global growth strategy. Partnerships with local and national organizations will support the service’s development and integration into Toronto’s transportation ecosystem.

Element Fleet Management, a Toronto-based fleet services provider, will collaborate with Waymo to manage the autonomous fleet. The partnership aims to create hundreds of jobs in fleet maintenance, validation driving, customer service, and operations. Waymo also cited existing ties to Canadian entities, including the Canada Pension Plan Investment Board and Magna International, as part of its broader Canadian presence.

The Waymo Driver’s safety record, based on over 400 million autonomous miles driven, shows 95% fewer crashes involving serious injury compared to human drivers in cities where it operates. Waymo is collaborating with accessibility organizations like BALANCE for Blind Adults to ensure the service meets diverse mobility needs. Residents can sign up for updates to be among the first to experience the service when available.