Waymo is rebranding its Zeekr RT robotaxi, now naming it Ojai before adding it to its commercial fleet, the company told TechCrunch. The autonomous vehicle, developed over the past three years in collaboration with Chinese automaker Zeekr, will adopt the new name, pronounced "oh-hi," after the village in the Topatopa Mountains near Los Angeles.

According to Waymo spokesperson Chris Bonelli, the decision to rebrand stems from the U.S. public's unfamiliarity with the Zeekr brand. The new branding may extend to the rider experience, with the Ojai robotaxi potentially greeting passengers with "Oh hi" followed by their name.

Waymo initially partnered with Geely Holding Group-owned Zeekr in 2021, unveiling a concept robotaxi the following year in Los Angeles. The prototype was built on Zeekr's SEA-M architecture, designed for future mobility solutions like robotaxis and logistics vehicles. The rebrand could also help distance the vehicle from its Chinese origins, given current geopolitical tensions.

The Zeekr RT robotaxi was specifically designed to integrate Waymo's autonomous driving technology. The SEA-M architecture provides a flexible platform for incorporating sensors, computing systems, and passenger-centric features. This design allows for a flat floor, expanded legroom, and adjustable seating, enhancing the overall rider experience. The vehicle's design also prioritizes safety, with multiple redundant systems and a focus on crash protection.

The Ojai robotaxi is expected to join Waymo's existing fleet of autonomous vehicles, which are currently being tested and deployed in several U.S. cities. Waymo has not yet announced a specific timeline for the Ojai's commercial deployment. The company continues to refine its autonomous driving technology and expand its operational footprint, aiming to provide a safe and convenient transportation alternative.