Toyota Targets 2028 Launch of Self-Driving Cars Using In-House AI

At a test track on the outskirts of Tokyo, a team of engineers watches a Lexus SUV navigate a series of cones without a driver behind the wheel. The vehicle relies on an artificial‑intelligence system that Toyota has developed internally, a step the automaker says will enable fully autonomous cars by 2028.

Toyota announced the project as part of a broader effort to close the gap with competitors in the United States and China, which have accelerated their own autonomous‑driving programs. The company plans to integrate the home‑grown AI across its future models, starting with the Lexus SUV currently undergoing trials.

According to Toyota officials, the internal AI platform will handle perception, decision‑making and control functions without relying on external suppliers. The automaker believes this approach will give it greater flexibility and speed in bringing self‑driving technology to market.

Industry analysts note that Toyota lags behind rivals such as Tesla, Waymo and several Chinese firms that have already deployed limited autonomous services. The 2028 target aligns with the company’s roadmap to introduce Level 3 and higher automation in its passenger cars.

During the Tokyo tests, the Lexus SUV demonstrated lane‑keeping, adaptive cruise control and obstacle avoidance in mixed traffic conditions. Toyota said the trials will expand to public roads later this year, with additional data collection to refine the AI algorithms.

Stakeholders, including suppliers and regulators, are watching the development closely. Japan’s transport ministry has indicated it will review the safety standards for autonomous vehicles as more manufacturers seek approval.

Looking ahead, Toyota expects the in‑house AI to be a cornerstone of its next generation of vehicles, potentially influencing global standards for autonomous driving technology.

Why it matters: The rollout of Toyota’s self‑driving cars could reshape mobility in the Middle East and Egypt, where demand for advanced transportation solutions is growing and where the automotive market heavily relies on Japanese manufacturers.