Toyota Unveils Next-Generation Mobility Solution e-Palette

On September 15, Toyota Motor Corporation announced the launch of its all-electric vehicle, the e-Palette, which is now available on the market. It is reported that the vehicle can be used for a variety of mobility services.

Image source: Toyota

The e-Palette features a spacious interior and large windows that create a sense of openness. It is not just a means of transportation, but also supports a variety of mobility services with a single vehicle, such as a mobile store or service space. Inspired by customer creativity, its versatile applications offer a brand-new travel experience, while its highly refined exterior design adds a new touch of color to the urban landscape.

In the future, Toyota will introduce the e-Palette at the Toyota Arena Tokyo and its surrounding areas, as well as in Toyota Woven City, using it as a transportation service and as mobile stores for various goods. Additionally, Toyota will collaborate with dealers, municipal authorities, and autonomous driving partners in specific regions to conduct autonomous driving demonstrations, aiming to launch vehicles equipped with Level 4 autonomous driving systems into the market by the 2027 fiscal year.

1. Provide multi-purpose vehicle applications

• By equipping various devices, the e-Palette can meet different purposes throughout the day. For example, it can serve as a shuttle in the morning and evening, and operate as a store while charging during the day.

• The spacious interior allows for customization to support a wider range of applications. For example, by installing remote communication or audio equipment, it can be used as an entertainment vehicle, enabling passengers to enjoy realistic sports events or immersive sightseeing experiences during their journey.

Image source: Toyota

2. Purpose and Accessibility Design

Low floors and wide sliding doors facilitate quick boarding and alighting. The height adjustment function enables a low floor, and the electric ramp allows wheelchair users to independently board and alight on sidewalks 15 cm high without assistance. Additionally, optional configurations such as one-touch wheelchair restraints are available.

Image source: Toyota

3. Support autonomous driving, prioritize safety assurance.

• The e-Palette can support an autonomous driving system that meets Level 2 autonomous driving standards. Toyota will continue to improve the functions with the goal of launching vehicles equipped with Level 4 autonomous driving systems in the 202 fiscal year.

• The e-Palette is equipped with an automated driving system developed by multiple companies (ADK: Automated Driving Kit, including automated driving control hardware and software, as well as sensors such as cameras and lidar). It is compatible with Toyota's Vehicle Control Interface (VCI), thereby supporting automated driving.

• The system realizes standardized connections between the autonomous driving system and the vehicle control system. Redundant systems are installed to ensure robustness and reliability. This autonomous driving system integration helps achieve safe and reliable driving, thereby fulfilling Toyota's autonomous driving vision.

  Seamless collaboration with the operations management system also ensures the smooth operation of autonomous driving.

Image source: Toyota

4. Advanced Equipment

• The vehicle is equipped with a steer-by-wire system, delivering a new generation of steering feel while reducing the driver's steering input and alleviating driving fatigue. The uniquely designed steering wheel creates an advanced cockpit atmosphere.

• Digital signages are installed both inside and outside the vehicle, capable of displaying information based on usage. The signage software can be edited by customers, allowing them to share the desired information conveniently.

• In addition to the safe exit assistance function, the cabin monitoring system also ensures the safe operation of the door by monitoring the surrounding environment of the door.

Image source: Toyota

5. Charging and power supply functions

e-Palette offers standard charging and fast charging capabilities. It can also provide power while stationary and be used as an emergency power source in case of disasters.

Image source: Toyota