Japan’s getting an iconic new taxi courtesy of Toyota. The new, aptly named ‘Japan Taxi’ (or Jpn Taxi for conveniently fitting on a rooftop sign) is already on roads, and bears a slight resemblance to London’s signature black cabs. The idea behind its design was indeed to make something that would be tied to its city’s identity as closely as the London black cab or the New York City yellow taxi, in fact – while also taking into consideration the reality of Japan’s rapidly aging society and other factors.
The Japan Taxi is gearing up for widespread presence in Tokyo in time for 2020, when the city will host the Olympic Games. It’s intended to offer mobility for everyone, and also to help achieve a society in which seniors and those with disabilities can lead an active life, according to Toyota’s chief engineer for the project Hiroshi Kayukawa.
Another goal with the design was to make the new taxi environmentally friendly, using a hybrid powertrain, and it’s also meant to convey a strong sense of hospitality for riders. They’re also designed to be remarkably durable vehicles, and to provide ample interior space and ease of getting in and out.
For more you can check