Toyota Woven City: A Revolutionary Step Towards the Future of Mobility

Toyota's Woven City is more than just a futuristic urban environment; it is a living laboratory designed to test and develop next-generation mobility solutions. The launch event, held in Susono City, Shizuoka Prefecture, was attended by key stakeholders including residents and partner companies who are eager to contribute to this groundbreaking venture. The city aims to serve as a proving ground where new technologies can be tested in a real-world environment, advancing Toyota's transformation into a mobility company. The event not only celebrated the official launch but also marked the beginning of life within Woven City as residents, known as Weavers, started to move in.

At the heart of Woven City are two distinct groups of participants: Inventors and Weavers. Inventors, including enterprises, startups, and research institutions, will utilize the city to develop and test innovative products and services. Among them is singer-songwriter Naoto Inti Raymi, who joins as the first artist to bring a creative sound dimension to the project. The concept of 'Kakezan' or multiplication of ideas is central to Woven City's philosophy, emphasizing innovation through collaboration. The city has also launched an accelerator program inviting global participants to propose ideas for co-creation.

Weavers, the residents and visitors of Woven City, play a crucial role in shaping the city's innovations. By experiencing and providing feedback on new products and services, they contribute to the continuous improvement of these technologies. Toyota Group employees and their families are among the first to move in, bringing the initial phase of residency to life. As the project progresses, more residents are expected to join, with plans to welcome general visitors by fiscal year 2026.

The city features a unique three-type road system, designed to optimize mobility. Ground-level roads are categorized into pedestrian-only, shared pedestrian and personal mobility, and vehicle-dedicated lanes. Additionally, an underground road network facilitates uninterrupted testing of mobility solutions. Woven City's infrastructure integrates traffic signals and multifunctional poles that support testing activities, enhancing safety through a coordinated approach.

Woven City's launch signifies a collaborative effort to create a sustainable and innovative urban environment. With the involvement of companies like Daikin Industries and NISSIN FOOD PRODUCTS, the city explores various themes from pollution control to new food cultures. Each Inventor brings unique expertise, contributing to a diverse ecosystem of innovation aimed at improving urban living and mobility. This initiative aligns with Toyota's commitment to the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals, emphasizing a greener, more inclusive society.

As Woven City progresses, it promises to set new standards in urban design and mobility solutions. The collaboration between Toyota and WbyT, along with global innovators, aims to extend the benefits of their developments beyond the city, impacting lives worldwide. Akio Toyoda, Chairman of Toyota, emphasized the power of collaboration in creating meaningful change, inviting all participants to contribute to weaving a brighter future. The city not only serves as a test course for mobility but also as a beacon of Toyota's broader goals in sustainability and technological advancement.