2020 Tokyo Olympics: Toyota unveils its autonomous electric shuttle

2020 Tokyo Olympics: Toyota unveils its autonomous electric shuttle

In anticipation of the upcoming Olympics, the e-Palette, Toyota's autonomous electric shuttle, has been redesigned "Tokyo 2020" version. It will provide athletes with fully automated mobility on looped circuits

This week, Toyota has presented more details about its e-Palette electric shuttle. The organizers of the 2020 Olympics want to focus on the automation of transportation, which is why Toyota has revealed that it has updated 20 e-Palette electric shuttles to fit the transport of athletes on the Olympic campus. next year. The vehicles will be used to transport athletes and their teams between the Olympic and Paralympic villages during the Tokyo Games in 2020.

These capsule-shaped vehicles were introduced for the first time in 2018. They feature large doors and electric ramps that are particularly suited to Olympic and Paralympic athletes. In the cockpit, the space is open and equipped with bars all along, easy-to-use seats and signage on the ground. The different elements display a contrasting color finish to simplify the movement and transport of visually impaired or color-blind people. These improvements were made possible by feedback from athletes, including Paralympians, who were consulted about their mobility needs.

An e-Palette competing with flying taxis?

Although it is expected that these vehicles will move autonomously on a predetermined route to almost 20 km / h, a driver will also be on board. With this driver, the shuttle will accommodate up to 20 people. The e-Palette is equipped with an automated driving system, software and advanced sensors such as cameras and Lidar (Light Detection And Ranging), combined with high precision 3D mapping and a complete field of view 360 degrees around the vehicle.

Redesigned cabin for Toyota 2020 e-Palette Shuttle. © Toyota

Although Toyota is the first mobility partner of the upcoming Tokyo Olympics, rumors and official discussions have emerged regarding the possibility for athletes and spectators to travel by flying taxis. A possibility that is also the subject of a feasibility study in Paris for the Olympic Games in 2024. Before its commissioning at the 2020 Olympics, the e-Palette shuttle will be presented to the public of the Paris Motor Show. Tokyo which is held from October 23 to November 4, in the Japanese capital.