Toyota has revealed plans to build a prototype “city” of the future which will help in the development of autonomous transport.
The Woven City will be built on a 175-acre site at the base of Mount Fuji in Japan and is envisioned as a “living laboratory,” home to full-time residents and researchers who will be able to test and develop technologies such as autonomy, robotics, personal mobility, smart homes and artificial intelligence in a real-world environment.
Under the city’s masterplan, street use has three designations: for faster vehicles only; for a mix of lower-speed vehicles, personal mobility and pedestrians; and for pedestrians only. Toyota said the three street types will weave together in an organic grid pattern to help accelerate the testing of autonomous transport.
“Building a complete city from the ground up, even on a small scale like this, is a unique opportunity to develop future technologies,” said Akio Toyoda, Toyota Motor Corporation President.
Only fully autonomous, zero-emission vehicles will be allowed on the main thoroughfares to move residents around. Throughout the city, autonomous Toyota e-Palette vehicles will be used for transport and deliveries, and as changeable mobile retail units.
Toyota plans to populate Woven City with employees and their families, retired couples, retailers, visiting scientists and industry partners. The plan is to start with 2,000 people and increase the number as the city evolves.
Ground-breaking for the site is scheduled for early 2021. Businesses interested in partnering with the project can find more details at Woven-city.global
