Toyota is embarking on an ambitious project to build a prototype city of the future, called the Woven City, at the base of Mt. Fuji in Japan. This 175-acre site will serve as a living laboratory for developing and testing next-generation technologies. Powered by hydrogen fuel cells, the Woven City will be a fully connected ecosystem where residents and researchers can explore innovations in real-world settings.
Build Toyota’s Vision: A Living Laboratory for Innovation
The Woven City project aims to build a sustainable and technologically advanced urban environment. It will be a hub for research and development in areas such as:
- Autonomy: Testing self-driving vehicles and transportation systems.
- Robotics: Integrating robots into daily life for assistance and convenience.
- Personal Mobility: Exploring new forms of transportation for individuals.
- Smart Homes: Developing connected home technologies for improved living.
- Artificial Intelligence (AI): Implementing AI to enhance various aspects of city life.
Toyota President Akio Toyoda envisions the city as a testing ground for a digital operating system that connects people, buildings, and vehicles through data and sensors. This interconnected network will enable the development and implementation of connected AI technology.
Build Toyota’s Partnerships: Collaboration and Open Invitation
Toyota is extending an open invitation to collaborate on the Woven City project. Commercial and academic partners, scientists, and researchers from around the world are encouraged to participate and contribute their expertise to this unique real-world incubator. This collaborative approach will foster innovation and accelerate the development of future technologies.
Build Toyota’s City Design: A Masterplan for the Future
World-renowned Danish architect Bjarke Ingels and his firm, BIG, are leading the design of the Woven City. BIG has designed iconic structures such as 2 World Trade Center in New York and Google’s headquarters in Mountain View and London. The Woven City masterplan incorporates:
- Three Street Types: Dedicated lanes for faster vehicles, mixed-use lanes for slower personal mobility and pedestrians, and pedestrian-only promenades. This interwoven grid system will facilitate the testing of autonomous vehicles.
- Sustainable Construction: Buildings primarily constructed of wood using traditional Japanese joinery and robotic production methods to minimize the carbon footprint. Rooftops will feature photovoltaic panels to generate solar power, supplementing the hydrogen fuel cell energy system.
- Integrated Green Spaces: Native vegetation and hydroponics will be woven throughout the city to promote a connection with nature.
Build Toyota’s Homes: Human Support Technologies and AI
Residences in the Woven City will be equipped with cutting-edge human support technologies:
- In-Home Robotics: Robots will assist with daily tasks and provide support to residents.
- Sensor-Based AI: AI will monitor occupants’ health, anticipate basic needs, and enhance daily life.
These technologies will be implemented with a focus on integrity, trust, and security.
Build Toyota’s Transportation: Autonomous and Emission-Free
Fully autonomous, zero-emission vehicles will be the primary mode of transportation within the Woven City:
- Main Thoroughfares: Only autonomous vehicles will be permitted on major roads.
- Toyota e-Palettes: These autonomous vehicles will be utilized for transportation, deliveries, and mobile retail throughout the city.
Build Toyota’s Community: Parks and Social Spaces
The Woven City design emphasizes community building through shared spaces:
- Neighborhood Parks and Central Park: Green areas designed for recreation and relaxation.
- Central Plaza: A designated space for social gatherings and community events.
Build Toyota’s Future: A Groundbreaking Project
Toyota plans to initially populate the Woven City with employees and their families, retired couples, retailers, visiting scientists, and industry partners. Starting with approximately 2,000 residents, the city will grow and evolve over time. Groundbreaking is scheduled for early 2021. The Woven City represents a significant step towards building a more sustainable and technologically advanced future. For collaboration opportunities, visit Woven-city.global.
