Waymo Chooses The Hyundai Ioniq 5 For New RoboTaxi

Waymo and Hyundai have formed a multi-year, strategic partnership to integrate the Waymo Driver autonomous driving system into the Hyundai Ioniq 5 electric vehicle. This collaboration comes as political changes in the U.S. lead to potential bans on Chinese cars, such as Zeekr, from Waymo’s fleet. The Ioniq 5, produced in America, will serve as an alternative, and the first road tests are scheduled for late 2025. The companies plan to deploy these vehicles commercially in subsequent years, with a significant number to be produced that feature autonomous-ready modifications like backup systems and automatic doors.

Waymo previously partnered with Geely to introduce the Zeekr EV in a bid to replace the aging Jaguar I-Paces. However, increasing tensions between the U.S. and China, alongside newly proposed regulations, have influenced a shift to the Ioniq 5. The decision to compact into an American-made model allows Waymo to continue fulfilling its ambitions for a robust autonomous fleet.

Hyundai Motor North America CEO José Muñoz stated that Waymo’s cutting-edge technology enhances road safety, and the Ioniq 5 is well suited for expanding this technology. This transition marks only the beginning of a deepening collaboration between Waymo and Hyundai as both parties are eager to identify further partnership opportunities.

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