Toyota's car sharing system by using ultra compact EV; 'Crayon'

摘要

Motor vehicles in 20th century have brought comfortable and convenient life, and on the other hand, have become one of the major causes of air pollution, noise and traffic jams especially in urban area. The electric vehicle (EV) has been expected to be one of the solutions against above mentioned problems since it creates no emission has and less noise and vibration. However, EV still have some limitations such as short cruising range or much higher cost which have been making it difficult to spread EV in public. Toyota recognizes these issues, and is aware that most urban car use involves short distance with 1 or 2 occupants per vehicle. Thus Toyota has developed shared-use system "Crayon", using a fleet of 2-seater EV commuter "e-com". The "Crayon" system is expected to be used in business in urban area, for second car demand in residential area, as well as for personal use by tourists in the protection area of nature or resort where ecological mobility is needed.