Why did Waymo rename the Zeekr RT robotaxi to Ojai?

Waymo renamed the vehicle to Ojai because the U.S. public is unfamiliar with the Zeekr brand.

When will the Waymo Ojai robotaxi launch commercially?

The Ojai is undergoing final testing with Waymo employees and their families, indicating an imminent public launch.

What are Waymo's expansion plans for its robotaxi service?

Waymo plans to launch its robotaxi service in a dozen more cities over the next year, including Denver and London.

Home / Technology / Waymo Rebrands Zeekr Robotaxi 'Ojai'

Waymo Rebrands Zeekr Robotaxi 'Ojai'

8 Jan

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Summary

Zeekr RT robotaxi is renamed Ojai before commercial service.
Waymo cited US unfamiliarity with the Zeekr brand.
Ojai robotaxi undergoes final tweaks before public launch.

Waymo has renamed its purpose-built robotaxi, previously known as the Zeekr RT, to 'Ojai'. This rebranding comes as the vehicle prepares for integration into Waymo's commercial fleet. The company indicated that the U.S. public's lack of familiarity with the Zeekr brand was a key factor in the decision.

The Ojai, developed in partnership with Geely Holding Group's Zeekr, is based on the Zeekr SEA-M architecture. While a prototype was shown without a steering wheel, the version unveiled at CES 2026 includes one. The vehicle has undergone extensive testing and refinement over the past three years in cities like Phoenix and San Francisco.

Final adjustments, including a paint color change from blueish to silver, have been made. Waymo employees and their contacts can currently hail the Ojai in select cities, a typical precursor to wider public availability. Waymo is planning a significant expansion of its robotaxi services to a dozen new cities within the next year.