Embracing Human-Centric Design at Woven City's Philosophy

In the aftermath of the Great East Japan Earthquake in 2011, Toyota, under the leadership of President Toyoda, made a significant decision. The company chose to close a factory in Higashi-Fuji and build a new one in Tohoku, but not without a purpose. The closure was also a step towards creating jobs and strengthening manufacturing in regions affected by disasters. This decision marked the birth of an idea that would eventually become Woven City.

Fast forward to February 23, 2021, Toyota started constructing Woven City in Susono City, Shizuoka Prefecture, Japan. The city is a reflection of Toyota's commitment to creating jobs and strengthening manufacturing in regions affected by disasters, a promise that was born out of necessity.

Susono City, where Toyota Motor East Japan is located, recently celebrated its 50th anniversary. The city will now serve as the home for Woven City, a prototype of the future.

At the core of Woven City is a philosophy passed down from the founding era of Sakichi Toyoda. The human-centered concept prioritises the value and spirit of always thinking about others and their feelings first. This philosophy will be inherited by all members developing the city.

James Kuffner, CEO of Woven Planet Holdings, a group that leads Toyota's automated development and the Woven City project, spoke about the city at the 2021 Ordinary General Shareholders' Meeting. Woven City is a significant project in Toyota's full-lineup electrification strategy.

Toyota considers all employees as co-founders of Woven City. Akio Toyoda, the company's President, promised to pass this human-centered philosophy to the future. He also stated that Woven City will try various new things to bring happiness to people.

The city of Woven City is not being built on a vacant lot, but on the place and history of Susono City. Akio Toyoda delivered a video message to former Higashi-Fuji Plant team members, promising that Woven City will always be human-centered.

Woven City, though born in Japan, can extend its scope to regions all over the world as it develops new technology to help humans. Akio Toyoda promised that the next generation will be able to grow up with Woven City.

The concept of Woven City was conceived as a means to potentially create new value in Susono by investing in a high technology living laboratory to revitalize the Shizuoka area. Woven Planet Holdings was reorganized from Toyota Research Institute-Advanced Development (TRI-AD) in January 2021.

In conclusion, Woven City is more than just a city. It is a testament to Toyota's commitment to its people, its communities, and its future. It is a prototype of the future, built with a human-centered philosophy, and it is a beacon of hope for those affected by disasters.