GM and Honda to Launch , Cruise Robotaxis in Japan.<br />The three companies made the announcement <br />on Oct. 18, TechCrunch reports.<br />We see a huge opportunity in Japan, <br />as it has the potential to be one of the largest AV markets in the world given the current high demand for taxis, GM CEO Mary Barra, via statement.<br />The region also has a growing need for new forms of transportation, with driver shortages and an increasing need for accessible forms of transportation, GM CEO Mary Barra, via statement.<br />"Custom-built Cruise Origin vehicles" are <br />slated to hit central Tokyo by early 2026.<br />Eventually, the fleet will expand beyond <br />Tokyo and consist of 500 vehicles.<br />The Cruise Origin is the result of a multi-year <br />partnership with GM and Honda, TechCrunch reports.<br />It was unveiled at the beginning of 2020.<br />Our three companies developed the Origin together because we know it takes strong, dedicated companies with unique skillsets and a clear vision partnering on one common goal, GM CEO Mary Barra, via statement.<br />Meanwhile, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) recently launched <br />"an investigation into Cruise's autonomous <br />vehicle system," TechCrunch reports.<br />Several pedestrians in San Francisco have been hit <br />by the company's vehicles, TechCrunch reports.<br />The investigation comes following reports that the vehicles <br />"may not have exercised appropriate caution around pedestrians in the roadway," the agency said.
