Waymo, the self-driving car company owned by Google’s parent company Alphabet, plans to launch its robotaxi service in Toronto, Canada, by 2028. The company announced the plan on October 16, 2026. It will first use human drivers to map Toronto’s streets before testing its self-driving technology on public roads with safety operators. Ontario has approved Waymo to take part in its automated-vehicle pilot program. However, further approvals are needed before fully driverless taxi rides can begin. Waymo plans to start with a small fleet of all-electric Jaguar I-PACE vehicles and expand over time. Customers will be able to book rides through the Waymo app once the service launches. The company is partnering with Toronto-based Element Fleet Management to support its operations. The partnership is expected to create hundreds of jobs over time. Toronto’s snow, icy roads and winter weather will also test the technology. Waymo is targeting 2028 for its first Toronto passengers, but the service is not yet available to the public. - @theargentgroup