Toyota Motor Corporation has officially announced the upcoming launch of its ambitious project, the Toyota Woven City, which is set to commence operations by autumn 2025. This groundbreaking initiative was highlighted during the CES 2025 conference held in Las Vegas, where Toyota’s Chairman Akio Toyoda provided details about the project.
Located on the site of the former Toyota Motor East Japan's Higashi-Fuji factory, Toyota Woven City aims to serve as a mobility test course and proving grounds for various innovative technologies. The development is part of Toyota's broader vision to transition from merely being an automaker to becoming a comprehensive mobility company, engaging deeply with societal issues.
During his presentation, Toyoda emphasized the city’s potential, stating, "If we combine Toyota’s strengths with those of different industries, we can create new values, products, and services." This sentiment echoes Toyota’s commitment to creating environments where inventors, researchers, and residents—collectively referred to as 'Weavers'—can experiment with and refine new mobility solutions.
The Woven City's Phase 1 construction has reached completion, with preparations accelerating for the official launch expected this coming autumn. Initially, around 100 people, primarily Toyota employees and their families, will inhabit the city. This number is projected to grow to approximately 360 during Phase 1, with plans to expand to 2,000 residents as the project develops.
Alongside Toyota, several partners have committed to participating as 'Inventors' within the community. Companies such as Daikin Industries and Nissin Foods have laid out ambitious projects corresponding to their expertise, including creating pollen-free environments and fostering new food cultures within the city. These partnerships reinforce the project’s objective to utilize collective resources and knowledge for sustainable innovation.
The city's design is focused not only on mobility advancements but on enhancing overall quality of life for its residents. It has even achieved the highest level of the 'LEED for Communities', attaining platinum certification due to its emphasis on sustainability and innovative living conditions.
Looking forward, the development team anticipates the launch of additional phases, ensuring the city evolves based on insights gained during its initial operations. Plans for Phase 2, along with other expansions, are already underway to refine expectations for mobility and technology requirements.
Through Woven City, Toyota aims to not only test new mobility solutions but to create value for society, moving beyond traditional transportation to encompass energy, information, and community connection. By 2026, it is also expected to open its doors to general public participation, encouraging interaction and feedback from visitors who will play important roles as Weavers.
Overall, Toyota Woven City stands as a beacon of future urban development, challenging not only logistical and technical boundaries but also fostering cooperation across various sectors—ultimately striving for the enhancement of human connectivity and societal welfare.