Waymo is changing the name of its Zeekr self-driving taxi

Waymo Unveils New Name for Its Upcoming Robotaxi

After three years of development and rigorous testing, Waymo is preparing to introduce a minivan-style autonomous vehicle originally manufactured by Zeekr, a Chinese automotive company. Before this vehicle officially joins Waymo’s commercial fleet, it has been given a new identity, as confirmed to TechCrunch by the company.

The robotaxi, previously known as the Zeekr RT, will now be called Ojai (pronounced “oh-hi”). The name is inspired by the artistic and wellness-focused village nestled in the Topatopa Mountains near Los Angeles.

According to Waymo spokesperson Chris Bonelli, the decision to rebrand was influenced by the lack of recognition of the Zeekr name among American consumers. This new branding will also shape the passenger experience—when riders enter the Ojai, the vehicle will greet them with a personalized “Oh hi” and their name, adding a playful touch.

Additionally, distancing the vehicle’s name from its Chinese manufacturer may prove beneficial for its U.S. launch.

Background: Waymo and Zeekr Collaboration

Waymo first partnered with Zeekr, which is owned by Geely Holding Group, in 2021. The following year, Waymo revealed a concept for a custom-designed robotaxi at a high-profile event in Los Angeles. The prototype was built on Zeekr’s SEA-M platform, which is tailored for next-generation mobility solutions such as autonomous taxis and delivery vehicles.

While the initial prototype lacked a steering wheel, the Ojai model—unveiled at CES 2026—features one.

Technical Evolution and Features

Throughout its development, the vehicle has undergone extensive refinement and testing in cities like Phoenix and San Francisco. At last year’s CES, Waymo showcased the robotaxi under its former name, Zeekr RT, highlighting its advanced hardware: 13 cameras, four lidar sensors, six radar units, multiple external audio receivers, and exceptionally small sensor wipers.

Although the hardware remains unchanged, Waymo has updated the vehicle’s exterior color from a bluish shade to a more silver finish.

Preparing for Public Launch

These final adjustments come as Ojai gets ready to enter commercial service. Currently, Waymo employees and their friends and families can request rides in the Zeekr van in San Francisco and Phoenix—a typical final phase before opening the service to the general public.

Waymo’s Expansion Plans

Waymo is rapidly growing its robotaxi operations. The company already provides autonomous ride-hailing in Atlanta, Austin, Los Angeles, Phoenix, and San Francisco, and aims to expand to at least a dozen additional cities within the next year. Upcoming locations include Denver, Las Vegas, and London.

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