Nissan Motor has begun testing a next-generation driver-assistance system developed in partnership with British startup Wayve, with a commercial launch planned in Japan by the 2027 financial year. The Japanese automaker showcased the technology in Tokyo earlier this month using its Ariya electric SUV, demonstrating advanced collision avoidance features designed for complex city driving environments.
Unlike highways, urban streets present greater challenges due to pedestrians, parked vehicles, cyclists, and delivery workers. Nissan’s prototype vehicles are equipped with 11 cameras, five radars, and one lidar sensor, enabling precise detection of obstacles and smoother navigation in crowded areas. The system offers Level 2 autonomous driving capabilities, meaning drivers must remain attentive and keep their hands on the wheel, ready to take control if needed.
Wayve, backed by major investors including SoftBank Group and Nvidia, brings artificial intelligence and machine learning expertise to the project. Earlier this year, the startup established a testing and development hub in Japan to support the collaboration and accelerate advancements in autonomous technology.
Nissan has been steadily evolving its driver-assistance systems since launching its ProPilot technology in 2016, followed by an upgraded second-generation version in 2019 tailored for highway driving. The company has not yet revealed which future models will feature the new urban-focused system, but the development highlights its commitment to expanding autonomous mobility solutions.
By combining Wayve’s AI-driven software with Nissan’s hardware expertise, the partnership aims to create a safer, more reliable driver-assistance experience for everyday city driving. With the 2027 launch on the horizon, Nissan is positioning itself at the forefront of next-generation mobility, competing in a rapidly advancing autonomous driving market.
