Prime Highlight
- Waymo has renamed its upcoming robotaxi from Zeekr RT to Ojaito better connect with U.S. riders unfamiliar with the Chinese automaker.
- Inspired by a California town, Ojai is designed to feel friendly and welcoming, greeting passengers with a cheerful “Oh hi” and their name.
Key Facts
- The Ojai robotaxi keeps the same technology, including 13 cameras, four lidar units, six radar sensors, and sensor-cleaning wipers, with only the exterior color changed to silver.
- Waymo is testing Ojai in San Francisco and Phoenixand plans to expand its paid robotaxi service to new cities such as Denver, Las Vegas, and London.
Background
Waymo has renamed its upcoming robotaxi, earlier known as Zeekr RT, to Ojai as it prepares for commercial launch in the United States. The company said the change will help riders connect better with the brand, as many people in the US are not familiar with the Chinese carmaker Zeekr.
The name Ojai comes from a small town in California known for its creative culture and focus on wellness. Waymo said the robotaxi will greet passengers with a cheerful “Oh hi” followed by their name, creating a friendly first impression.
The vehicle is a minivan-style robotaxi developed in partnership with Zeekr, a brand owned by China’s Geely Holding Group. Waymo first announced the tie-up in 2021 and later showcased the concept in Los Angeles. While the early prototype did not have a steering wheel, the Ojai version now includes one.
Waymo confirmed that the hardware inside the vehicle remains the same. The robotaxi uses 13 cameras, four lidar units, six radar sensors, and external audio receivers. It also features small sensor wipers to keep the equipment clean. The only visible change is the exterior paint, which has moved from a blue tone to a silver shade.
The Ojai robotaxi is already being tested by Waymo staff and their family members in San Francisco and Phoenix. This stage usually comes just before public availability.
Waymo currently runs paid robotaxi services in Atlanta, Austin, Los Angeles, Phoenix, and San Francisco. The company now plans to expand into at least a dozen more cities over the next year. The new locations will include Denver, Las Vegas, and even London, marking a major step in its global growth strategy.