Toyota extends its trial of the tiny 2-seater i-Road to Tokyo
Toyota has begun trials of a 2-seat version of its electric vehicle the i-Road in Tokyo, according to recent reports. The trials are part of the company’s “Open Road Project,” which was launched back in July. Although already in use in a test project in France, this is the first time that the 2-seat version of the i-Road will be tested in Japan. The testing program will see the pillion-style 2-seaters loaned out to test project participants to assess how the vehicle performs during routine acts such as shopping, commuting, etc. In other words, are the cars big enough to meet the needs of most potential users? Or is there just not enough interior space in these absolutely tiny cars to function effectively for most people’s uses?

Toyota will begin Japan-based trials of a two-seater version of the i-Road, its short-range ultra-compact electric vehicle. The trials will be conducted as a part of the Open Road Project launched in July, and will start on 21 November in Tokyo’s Shibuya Ward.

While currently in use as part of a Toyota test project in Grenoble, France, the two-seater model has now received type certification from the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism, making it eligible for use in Japan.

The vehicles will be loaned for periods of approximately one month to users who plan to use them for two-passenger applications. By testing the vehicles in a variety of day-to-day situations such as commuting, shopping, and dropping off and picking up children, Toyota will assess the value of the i-Road in different capacities, including its potential to meet mobility needs that are not currently met.

In order to meet the Japanese government’s type certification requirements, some aspects of the one-occupant vehicle were modified to make two-occupant use viable. These modifications included changes to reflectors and vehicle-width indicators, and the addition of an Approaching Vehicle Audible System.

The municipal government of Tokyo's Shibuya Ward has expressed interest in the convenience of the i-Road, and will conduct the trials with Toyota in an effort to study the possibility of community-based development for the future.

Test driver applications are being accepted, and information on planning and development of products and services will be released on the Open Road Project’s website.

Toyota sought to recruit approximately 100 test drivers over the course of the year but as of the end of October, some 2,600 people have applied.

Test drivers can customize the i-Road by making original front parts and cup holders using a 3D printer.