The Toyota Mobility Foundation (TMF), led by Akio Toyoda, plans to conduct groundbreaking verification tests at the final round of the ENEOS Super Taikyu Series 2024 Empowered by BRIDGESTONE. This event will take place on November 16-17 at Fuji Speedway.
The initiative is part of TMF’s “Mobility for ALL – Bringing the Potential of Mobility to Everyone” category within its Make a Move Project, which aims to implement practical mobility solutions in society.
Launched in 2022, the “Mobility for ALL” category invites ideas that enable everyone, including individuals with disabilities, to enjoy sports events and travel comfortably to venues. This year, the contest received over 80 applications from Japan and abroad.
A panel of stakeholders, industry experts, and external specialists evaluated the proposals based on their relevance, innovation, and potential impact.
In May, ten teams received grants of up to 20 million yen each to develop their solutions for real-world testing. Alongside seven finalists from the previous year, these teams will present 17 innovative projects at the Fuji Speedway event.
The selected teams represent diverse technological advancements aimed at enhancing mobility for all.
For example, Eyesynth from Spain introduced smart glasses for the visually impaired that capture real-time 3D images of the environment. Users perceive object positions and sizes through auditory feedback.
Meanwhile, Veronica LLC develops an immersive experience that translates emotional visual moments into sound, allowing sighted and visually impaired individuals to share experiences through auditory cues.
WheeLog, an NPO, showcases “Wheelog!,” an app and barrier-free facility map that lets wheelchair users simulate movements and navigate spaces more effectively.
WeWalk Limited from the UK presents an intelligent white cane equipped with obstacle detection and voice guidance features, assisting visually impaired individuals in navigating their surroundings safely.
Koborin Co., Ltd demonstrates “Hineru,” a wheelchair unit enabling users to adjust their posture independently. It enhances comfort and viewing experiences at events like motor races.
Toraru Co., Ltd unveils “GENCHI,” a remote presence service that allows people with mobility difficulties to experience virtual travel and activities such as race spectating through advanced telepresence technology.
Dotlumen SRL from Romania introduces goggles powered by spatial navigation AI. These give visually impaired users the sensation of being guided by a service dog, enhancing their mobility and independence.
Hable One BV from the Netherlands showcases an external keyboard designed for intuitive smartphone and tablet operation by visually impaired users, facilitating better access to digital platforms.
PLAYWORKS Inc. presents “coco-tape,” a tactile mobility aid serving as an alternative to braille paving blocks. It guides visually impaired individuals through touch-sensitive tape that can be placed as needed.
The Way Design LLC demonstrates “Ossist,” a power-assist device that eases the effort required to push manual wheelchairs, improving mobility for both users and caregivers.
Seven finalists from the previous year will also participate, bringing forward their refined solutions. Ashirase Inc. enhances “Ashirase,” a navigation system attached to footwear that guides visually impaired users through vibration patterns.
It now features improved route algorithms and destination proximity alerts.
CONE-XI Co., Ltd introduces a mobility support service that matches visiting nurses with care vehicles, integrating medical and care services to meet the needs of individuals with disabilities.
Japan Data Science Consortium Co. Ltd offers an immersive spectator experience for visually impaired individuals by leveraging social media feedback to enhance real-world event participation.
Sode-en Co., Ltd showcases an app that connects individuals in need with supporters, creating a safe and enjoyable environment through innovative matching services.
Technotools Corporation develops a device that enables individuals with physical disabilities to operate racing simulators, expanding accessibility in the e-motorsports arena.
Dentsu Inc. presents “Voice Watch,” a generative AI system that provides real-time sports commentary tailored for visually impaired audiences.
Lighthouse Tech LLC, from Switzerland, introduces stylish eyewear frames that combine fashion with obstacle-detection functionality, enhancing safety and confidence for visually impaired users.
The verification tests at Fuji Speedway will involve a wide range of participants. Individuals with disabilities, industry experts, and members of the general public will collaborate to assess the practicality and effectiveness of each solution in real-world scenarios.
Following the verification phase, a final selection process is scheduled for December. Projects will be evaluated based on social impact, sustainability, and feasibility criteria.
Selected teams will receive additional support funding to advance their projects toward social implementation, aligning with TMF’s mission to bring the potential of mobility to everyone.
Established in August 2014, the Toyota Mobility Foundation leverages Toyota Motor Corporation’s extensive technological expertise and resources to address mobility challenges worldwide.
TMF focuses on creating a more inclusive and sustainable society through mobility solutions that respect and benefit all stakeholders, including customers, business partners, employees, and local communities.
The foundation actively engages in various projects worldwide and promotes initiatives that contribute to the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). TMF pioneers advancements that will shape the future of mobility and improve the quality of life for people everywhere.
The ENEOS Super Taikyu Series 2024 Empowered by BRIDGESTONE final round at Fuji Speedway promises thrilling motorsport action and a glimpse into the future of accessible mobility solutions.
Participants will have the chance to engage innovators, experience demonstrations firsthand, and provide valuable feedback that will shape the development of these technologies.
Toyota Mobility Foundation’s initiatives reflect a broader commitment to sustainability and societal well-being. TMF continues to drive progress toward a more inclusive and mobile society by fostering innovation and supporting projects with significant impact potential.
Interested parties can visit the official Mobility Contest website for more information about the event and the Make a Move Project. The foundation invites everyone to Fuji Speedway to witness innovations that will transform how we move and experience the world.
The Toyota Mobility Foundation remains dedicated to creating a better future through accessible mobility solutions. Its efforts align with a global vision of inclusivity and technological advancement.
The foundation believes that empowering innovators and supporting groundbreaking projects can make significant strides toward a society without mobility barriers.
Participants and attendees at the Fuji Speedway event will be instrumental in this journey. Their feedback and engagement will help refine these technologies, ensuring they are tailored to real-world needs and challenges.
Together, they will contribute to a movement that advances technology and uplifts communities and individuals.
The upcoming event symbolizes more than a showcase of new gadgets and applications. It represents a collaborative effort to redefine mobility and accessibility on a global scale.
The Toyota Mobility Foundation encourages everyone interested in the future of mobility to participate, share their insights, and be part of this transformative experience.