In this guide
Short answer: Waymo mainly uses the all-electric Jaguar I-PACE SUV. Since 2026 it has added the Ojai, an electric van with sliding doors, built on a Zeekr base and fitted with Waymo's newest self-driving system. A Hyundai Ioniq 5 version is being tested. Both cars in service carry up to four riders, and you can't choose which one you get.
The car that picks you up depends on your city. Here's how the two compare for a rider, and why Waymo is switching. For how the self-driving system works, see how does Waymo work?
Waymo's vehicles compared
| Jaguar I-PACE | Waymo Ojai | Hyundai Ioniq 5 | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Status | Main fleet | In service since 2026 | Testing |
| Type | Electric SUV | Electric van, sliding doors | Electric crossover |
| Riders | 4 | 4 | n/a |
| Self-driving system | 5th generation | 6th generation | 6th generation |
| Sensors (reported) | 29 cameras, 5 lidars | 13 cameras, 4 lidars, 6 radars | Same as Ojai system |
| Built by | Jaguar (Magna Steyr, Austria) | Zeekr base (China), finished in Arizona | Hyundai, Georgia |
Jaguar I-PACE
The white Jaguar with the spinning dome on top is the Waymo most people picture. It's a premium electric SUV with a rear screen for starting the ride and controlling music and temperature, and room for two large suitcases in the back. Jaguar stopped building the I-PACE in late 2024, which is one reason Waymo needed a new vehicle. It still makes up much of the fleet in Phoenix, San Francisco, Los Angeles and other cities.
Waymo Ojai
The Ojai, named in January 2026, is Waymo's first vehicle designed as a robotaxi from the start. For riders, the main differences are:
- Sliding doors on both sides and no pillar between them, so getting in with bags or a car seat is easier.
- A taller, boxier body than the Jaguar, built as a commercial vehicle.
- Heated sensors and small wipers, built for rain and snow. That's why Denver uses only the Ojai.
The Ojai launched as the only vehicle in Denver and San Diego in September 2026, and Waymo says it's coming to Phoenix, Los Angeles and San Francisco. About 300 were carrying public riders by September 2026, with thousands more being prepared.
The Ojai's base is built in China by Zeekr, part of the Geely group, then shipped to Mesa, Arizona, where Waymo and Magna install the sensors, computers and software.
Hyundai Ioniq 5
Waymo and Hyundai are putting the 6th-generation system into the Ioniq 5, to be assembled at Hyundai's plant in Georgia. Public-road testing began in 2026, but it isn't carrying paying riders in meaningful numbers yet.
What about the Chrysler Pacifica?
Waymo used Chrysler Pacifica minivans for its early service in Phoenix. Waymo has since phased them out of rider service in favor of the Jaguar and the Ojai.
What it means for you
- You can't pick a model, so plan for four riders and two big suitcases either way. See airport trips.
- Bring your own car seat for children under 8, installed in the back. See kids and teens.
- Look for your initials on the roof dome, whatever the car.
Frequently asked questions
What car is a Waymo?
Most Waymos are all-electric Jaguar I-PACE SUVs. Since 2026, Waymo has also used the Ojai, a purpose-built electric van made on a Zeekr base and fitted with Waymo's 6th-generation system. A Hyundai Ioniq 5 version is in testing.
Can I choose a Jaguar or an Ojai?
No. Waymo sends whichever vehicle is available. In Denver and San Diego, only the Ojai is used.
How many people fit in a Waymo?
Four riders in both the Jaguar and the Ojai. The driver's seat is off-limits.
Is the Waymo Ojai made in China?
The base vehicle is built by Zeekr, part of China's Geely group, in Ningbo. Waymo and Magna install the self-driving hardware and software at a factory in Mesa, Arizona.
Are Waymo cars electric?
Yes. All of Waymo's current passenger vehicles are fully electric.
Update log
- Guide published with the Ojai rollout (Denver and San Diego, September 2026) and the Hyundai Ioniq 5 program.
Sources and official texts