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Toyota e-Palette autonomous vehicles to be rolled out “within the next few years”

Toyota will roll out its all-electric e-Palette autonomous vehicles for commercial applications during the first half of this decade, according to the Japanese manufacturer.


The box-like delivery and mobility apparatus are set to undergo rigorous testing this year at Toyota's prototype Woven City – in the foothills of Mount Fuji – to refine the advanced onboard operations management system, which governs logistics, safety, maintenance, and efficiency.

According to Toyota, this process will pave the way for commercial goods and service delivery operations "within the next few years."

The e-Palette was originally slated for use as a shuttle during the 2021 Tokyo Olympic Games, however the fate of this event now appears to be in doubt due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.

Drive has contacted a spokesperson for Toyota Australia regarding the potential for such vehicles to be introduced locally in the future. 

Despite a tapering of media attention in recent years, autonomous technology is still driving exceptional investment from manufacturers. Last week Ford announced it would devote US$7 billion (AU$9.2 billion) towards in-house development.

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William Davis

William Davis has written for Drive since July 2020, covering news and current affairs in the automotive industry. He has maintained a primary focus on industry trends, autonomous technology, electric vehicle regulations, and local environmental policy. As the newest addition to the Drive team, William was brought onboard for his attention to detail, writing skills, and strong work ethic. Despite writing for a diverse range of outlets – including the Australian Financial Review, Robb Report, and Property Observer – since completing his media degree at Macquarie University, William has always had a passion for cars.

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