Waymo Ojai Robotaxi Unveiled: Rebranding Zeekr for the US Market at CES 2026
Waymo officially rebrands its Zeekr-made robotaxi to 'Ojai' at CES 2026. Explore the strategic reasons behind the name change, hardware specs, and global expansion plans.
"Oh hi!" That's the greeting you'll soon hear from Waymo's latest fleet member. At CES 2026, the autonomous driving giant revealed that its custom-built robotaxi, manufactured by Chinese automaker Zeekr, has been officially renamed Ojai.
Waymo Ojai Robotaxi: A Strategic Shift in Branding
The transition from the Zeekr RT to Ojai isn't just about a catchy name. Named after a tranquil California town known for wellness and arts, the rebrand aims to bridge the gap with the American public. According to Waymo spokesperson Chris Bonelli, the company determined that Zeekr lacked brand recognition in the U.S. By choosing a name that sounds like a friendly greeting, Waymo is humanizing its high-tech hardware.
The partnership with Geely-owned Zeekr dates back to 2021. While the 2022 prototype famously lacked a steering wheel, the version displayed at CES 2026 includes one, reflecting a more pragmatic approach to current safety regulations and operational needs.
Hardware Specs and Global Expansion Goals
The Ojai features a sophisticated sensor suite, including 13 cameras, 4 lidars, and 6 radars. Beyond the name, the paint has been updated from a blue tint to a sleek silver. The vehicle is currently undergoing final testing with Waymo employees in San Francisco and Phoenix, signaling that a public commercial launch is imminent.
Waymo is moving fast. Already operating in five major U.S. hubs, the company plans to expand to 12 more cities over the next year. This ambitious roadmap includes Denver, Las Vegas, and its first major international foray into London.
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