Waymo to Launch First EU Robotaxi Service in Munich by 2027

Waymo, owned by Alphabet, has been operating autonomous ride-hailing services in several U.S. cities. After years of testing and commercial launches in the United States, the company began looking to expand internationally. Germany, known for its automotive industry, has been seeking ways to modernize and respond to new mobility trends.

In August 2026, Waymo revealed its plans to bring its robotaxi technology to the European Union for the first time. Munich was selected as the launch city, a move seen by some as both a technological milestone and a response to pressures on Germany's traditional carmakers.

On August 25, 2026, multiple news outlets reported Waymo's expansion into Germany. According to Bloomberg, the company aims to begin testing its autonomous vehicles in Munich soon, with a goal of launching commercial robotaxi rides by late 2027. The Financial Times noted that the move comes as Germany works to strengthen its auto sector amid global competition.

Waymo's rollout in Munich will start with high-definition mapping and manual driving, according to The Next Web. This preparatory phase is necessary for safety and regulatory compliance. DIE ZEIT reported that the initiative hopes to reduce accidents and improve safety for pedestrians and cyclists in the city.

Waymo is also setting up a local subsidiary in Germany, as reported by Engadget, and has registered in Switzerland as well. TechCrunch highlighted that the company still needs to complete mapping, testing, and clear regulatory hurdles before it can operate driverless rides.

Waymo is currently preparing for on-the-ground testing in Munich. The company is mapping the city using vehicles with human drivers, which is a standard step before fully autonomous services can begin. The official launch of the robotaxi service is targeted for late 2027.

This will be Waymo's first commercial operation in the European Union and its third market outside the United States. The company's entry into Munich is seen as a significant test for both autonomous technology and the readiness of European cities to adopt driverless transport.

Key questions remain about regulatory approval, public acceptance, and how quickly Waymo can transition from testing to full operation. The outcome in Munich will likely influence how other European countries approach autonomous ride-hailing services in the years ahead.