Waymo reportedly talking with Hyundai about Ioniq 5 self-driving taxis

The Hyundai Ioniq 5 could become Waymo’s next self-driving taxi, deploying a new generation of the Google spinoff’s Waymo Driver autonomous-driving system, Reuters reports.

Officials from Wayne and Hyundai have met more than three times to discuss use of the Ioniq 5 in Waymo’s self-driving tax service, according to the report, which also states that the Ioniq 5 would replace vehicles based on a platform from Chinese automaker Zeekr.

Waymo robotaxi based on the Zeekr SEA-M platform

Waymo revealed a self-driving taxi based on the Zeekr SEA-M platform in 2022, but since then the Biden administration has imposed a 100% tariff on Chinese-made EVs, which are due to take effect September 27.

In a statement to Reuters, Waymo said it was still “hard at work validating the 6th-generation Waymo Driver on the Zeekr platform,” while Zeekr told the outlet that there is “no change” in its partnership with Waymo. Hyundai said “nothing is determined at this stage about new businesses.”

Hyundai Ioniq 5 self-driving car

While Waymo once deployed a small fleet of purpose-built self-driving cars for testing purposes, it’s relied on vehicles from established automakers as it seeks to commercialize its tech. These have all been plug-in cars, including the Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid plug-in hybrid minivan and Jaguar I-Pace electric SUV.

The Ioniq 5 was previously slated to become a self-driving taxi under Motional, a joint venture between Hyundai and automotive supplier Aptiv. Motional revealed an autonomous Ioniq 5 prototype in 2021, with plans to launch a “robotaxi” service in 2023. But TechCrunch reported in May that Motional was pushing back the commercial launch to 2026 as it underwent a restructuring. A Hyundai/Waymo partnership could be a marriage of convenience for both sides.