An ambitious idea has arisen in Japan: Toyota Motor Company plans to build a fully autonomous city of the future.
The new “Woven City” is planned to be built in a picturesque location at the foot of Mount Fuji, a few hours’ drive from Tokyo. The site was previously home to a factory that had been producing cars since the 60s, but recently closed. Now new technologies will appear here.
The city will be as environmentally friendly as possible. Most of the houses will be built from wood, photovoltaic panels will be installed on the roofs of buildings to generate energy, and public spaces will be landscaped.
To move residents around the city, vehicles called «E-palettes» will be used — transparent electronic platforms resembling flat pallets that can accommodate up to 20 passengers. These electronic platforms will move along special lanes for unmanned vehicles and will be able not only to transport people, but also to deliver packages and also act as mobile storefronts.
In addition to advanced transport, the city will also have smart homes that can automatically remove garbage and replenish food in refrigerators. AI sensors in homes will automatically monitor not only the needs of residents, but also their health. And the new generation of home robots will become caregivers for elderly residents, nannies for very young children and tutors for schoolchildren.
“Woven City is a mobility test course to realize our dream of creating prosperity for all. Starting from Susono at Mount Fuji, we will test new ideas for systems and services that enhance mobility and unlock human potential. Here we will build the future fabric of life.” — says the official page dedicated to Woven City.
