Waymo Plans Robotaxi Launch in Nashville by 2026
Key Points
- Waymo will start autonomous robotaxi testing in Nashville within months.
- Full public service in Nashville is targeted for 2026.
- Riders will hail rides via the Waymo app; Lyft will later integrate Waymo rides.
- Waymo currently operates driverless fleets in five U.S. cities.
- Future U.S. expansions include Denver, Seattle, Miami and Washington, D.C.
- New York City granted permission for test rides with a safety driver.
- Early trials in Tokyo are being run with human drivers.
Waymo is preparing to bring its autonomous robotaxis to Nashville, with initial testing slated for the coming months and full public service expected by 2026. Riders will be able to request rides through the Waymo app, and Lyft will eventually match its users with Waymo vehicles in the city. The company already operates driverless fleets in five U.S. markets and is expanding its footprint to include Denver, Seattle, Miami and Washington, D.C., while also securing test permissions in New York City and conducting early trials in Tokyo with human‑driven cars.
Waymo’s Nashville Rollout
Waymo announced plans to extend its robotaxi service to Nashville. The company expects to begin autonomous driving operations in the city within the next few months, with a broader public launch targeted for 2026. Early riders in Nashville will be able to hail a vehicle through the Waymo mobile application, mirroring the experience offered in the company’s existing markets.
Integration With Lyft
As part of the Nashville strategy, Waymo intends to integrate its service with Lyft’s platform. Once the partnership is in place, Lyft users will have the option to request a Waymo robotaxi, expanding mobility choices for both companies’ customers.
Current U.S. Presence
Waymo currently runs driverless fleets in five U.S. cities: San Francisco and the broader Bay Area, Los Angeles, Phoenix, Austin and Atlanta. These markets serve as the foundation for the company’s expansion plans, providing operational experience that will be applied to new locations.
Future Expansion Targets
Beyond Nashville, Waymo is preparing to launch services in additional U.S. cities, including Denver and Seattle, where testing began recently. The company also has plans for Miami and Washington, D.C., signaling a broadening national footprint.
Regulatory Milestones
Waymo secured permission from New York City to conduct test rides, albeit with a safety driver behind the wheel. This approval demonstrates the company’s ability to work with municipal regulators to pave the way for future driverless operations.
International Testing in Tokyo
On the global front, Waymo is conducting early testing in Tokyo. These trials currently involve human drivers operating the vehicles, providing a controlled environment to evaluate the technology before any autonomous deployment.
Looking Ahead
The Nashville launch, together with the company’s ongoing expansions and regulatory engagements, underscores Waymo’s commitment to scaling its autonomous transportation network across the United States and beyond. As the rollout progresses, riders can expect a seamless, app‑driven experience that blends the convenience of ridesharing with the safety and efficiency of autonomous driving.