Element expands Waymo partnership ahead of Canadian launch

Element Fleet Management has expanded its strategic partnership with autonomous driving technology company Waymo, supporting its planned launch in Toronto in 2028.

The expansion will see Element provide end-to-end fleet management and operational support for Waymo’s first Canadian operations, building on the companies’ existing partnership in San Diego, announced in June.

Through its intelligent mobility division, Element Mobility, the company will manage onsite operations for Waymo’s Toronto fleet, coordinating the infrastructure, personnel and vehicle services required to support autonomous ride-hailing.

Its responsibilities will include fleet lifecycle management, vehicle maintenance and readiness, charging infrastructure, energy management and connected vehicle intelligence.

Element will also oversee day-to-day operational requirements, ensuring vehicles are charged, cleaned, serviced and ready for deployment, with the aim of improving fleet availability and reducing downtime.

“As a global leader in fleet management and intelligent mobility solutions, we’re proud to bring our expertise and innovation to Waymo’s entry into Canada.

“This partnership demonstrates how Element is evolving to support the next generation of mobility: combining our fleet leadership, intelligent mobility solutions, and operational capabilities to help our clients and partners scale efficiently and reliably across markets.”

The Toronto launch represents the next phase of Waymo’s international expansion and highlights the growing role of specialist fleet management providers in supporting autonomous vehicle operations.

“Toronto is one of the world’s great cities — innovative, diverse, and forward-looking. We’re proud to bring the Waymo Driver to Canada’s largest city and to partner with the vibrant business, arts and cultural communities that share our commitment to safer streets and more accessible mobility.”

The partnership is also expected to create employment opportunities as Waymo prepares to establish its Canadian operations.

Nicole Gavel, Senior Director, Head of Business Development and Strategic Partnerships at Waymo, said: “We’re thrilled to continue to build our growing partnership with Element Fleet Management, as we begin preparing for autonomous ride-hailing in their hometown of Toronto.

“Together with Element and our partners, we’ll invest in hundreds of roles over time spanning fleet maintenance, validation driving, customer service, and other operations functions that support our service.”