Zeekr RT Robotaxi: Tiny Wipers on Waymo Vehicle

The Waymo-Zeekr Robotaxi: A Closer Look

For those closely following advancements in autonomous vehicle technology, the collaboration between Waymo and Zeekr regarding a robotaxi is already known.

The partnership was initially announced in 2021. Waymo unveiled a concept version of the specifically designed robotaxi in late 2022. Prototype testing on public roads in San Francisco commenced last year, alongside the deployment of its existing commercial fleet utilizing Jaguar I-Pace vehicles.

New Details from CES 2025

Further information regarding the project was presented this week at CES 2025 in Las Vegas, where both Zeekr and Waymo have exhibits. A static display of the Zeekr robotaxi allowed for detailed examination of its sensor suite and a remarkably small wiper system.

A sensor package is positioned at the vehicle's front, above the tire. This assembly incorporates two cameras, equipped with a diminutive wiper to maintain visibility, alongside radar technology. A similar sensor package at the rear of the robotaxi includes cameras, radar, and lidar, also featuring a cleaning system and wiper.

Waymo confirmed to Techcrunch that the sensor-cleaning system was developed internally. (A similar, albeit larger, system is also present on the Jaguar I-Pace robotaxis.)

Sensor Configuration

The Zeekr RT is equipped with a comprehensive array of sensors, including 13 cameras, four lidar units, six radar systems, and multiple external audio receivers. Lidar, or light detection and ranging, utilizes light pulses to accurately measure distances based on return timing.

Zeekr RT: Official Name and Production Plans

At CES 2025, the robotaxi received its official designation: the Zeekr RT. Additional details were also revealed.

Zeekr announced plans to begin delivering mass-produced Zeekr RT vehicles to Waymo later this year.

Initially, these robotaxis will be utilized for testing purposes, as stated by Waymo. Subsequently, they will be integrated into the company’s commercial fleet.

Testing and Validation Process

Waymo, a company under the Alphabet umbrella with a significant presence at CES 2025, initiated testing of components of the Zeekr robotaxi in early 2024. This began with the base chassis and progressed to include sensor integration. Currently, prototype Zeekr RTs are undergoing testing on public roads in both San Francisco and Phoenix, operating in autonomous mode with a human safety driver present.

Upon receiving the production-ready robotaxi, Waymo will continue rigorous testing and validation procedures. The eventual goal is to remove the human safety driver. Following established procedures, Waymo will likely test the Zeekr RT in fully driverless mode before making it available to the public.