Universal Design: A Star for Japan, a Nation Embracing Tourism

The "JPN TAXI" announced by Toyota was developed as a taxi-exclusive vehicle that reflects the "spirit of Japanese hospitality"—being kind and comfortable for everyone, including children, the elderly, wheelchair users, and international tourists. Toyota aims to transform Japan's streetscapes and contribute to barrier-free urban development and tourism by promoting its widespread adoption.

Specifically, it features a universal design that is accessible to many: a low, flat floor for easy entry and exit (step height: 320mm), a wide-opening electric rear sliding door (opening width: 720mm, opening height: 1,300mm), thoughtfully placed assist grips, and a structure that allows passengers to board with their wheelchairs. Consequently, the exterior adopts a tall wagon-like design, rather than the traditional four-door sedan.

Furthermore, its styling is designed to be timeless and resistant to trends. The body color, a deep indigo known as "Koi-ai" (深藍), has long been cherished as a color symbolizing Japan. This combination aims for instant recognition as a taxi while harmonizing with the urban landscape.

True to its role as a taxi-exclusive vehicle, it offers excellent visibility through large windows, strategically placed pillars, and fender mirrors. Inside the driver's area, controls for dispatch systems and air conditioning are grouped to the right of the driver's seat, while navigation screens and fare meters, easily visible to passengers, are placed centrally. Frequently used controls like the hazard switch are positioned to the right of the steering wheel, demonstrating thoughtful ergonomic grouping.

The luggage compartment offers 401 liters of space, capable of storing two suitcases stacked flat or four golf bags.

The powertrain features a newly developed LPG (liquefied petroleum gas) hybrid system using THS II with reduction gear (1NZ-FXP 1.5L), achieving excellent fuel economy of 19.4 km/L and significantly reducing CO2 emissions. Standard equipment across all models includes the "Toyota Safety Sense C" collision avoidance support package and six SRS airbags. The Intelligent Clearance Sonar, which mitigates collision damage from unintended acceleration, is available as an option, underscoring the vehicle's commitment to environmental and safety considerations.

There are two grades: the "Nagomi" (和) priced at ¥3,277,800 and the "Takumi" (匠) at ¥3,499,200.

Toyota's taxi vehicles, beginning with the Toyoda "AA" in 1936 and continuing with models like the 1953 "Toyopet Super RH," have long been cherished as vehicles that assist people's mobility on various journeys. They represent the very essence of car manufacturing, embodying Toyota's pursuit of the ideal form of automotive creation. Toyota anticipates that the JPN TAXI will...Tokyo Motor Show 2017...play a role in welcoming guests from around the world to the 2020 Olympic and Paralympic Games.