GM and Honda to Launch , Cruise Robotaxis in Japan.br The three companies made the announcement br on Oct. 18, TechCrunch reports.br We see a huge opportunity in Japan, br as it has the potential to be one of the largest AV markets in the world given the current high demand for taxis, GM CEO Mary Barra, via statement.br The region also has a growing need for new forms of transportation, with driver shortages and an increasing need for accessible forms of transportation, GM CEO Mary Barra, via statement.br "Custom-built Cruise Origin vehicles" are br slated to hit central Tokyo by early 2026.br Eventually, the fleet will expand beyond br Tokyo and consist of 500 vehicles.br The Cruise Origin is the result of a multi-year br partnership with GM and Honda, TechCrunch reports.br It was unveiled at the beginning of 2020.br Our three companies developed the Origin together because we know it takes strong, dedicated companies with unique skillsets and a clear vision partnering on one common goal, GM CEO Mary Barra, via statement.br Meanwhile, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) recently launched br "an investigation into Cruise's autonomous br vehicle system," TechCrunch reports.br Several pedestrians in San Francisco have been hit br by the company's vehicles, TechCrunch reports.br The investigation comes following reports that the vehicles br "may not have exercised appropriate caution around pedestrians in the roadway," the agency said.