Toyota JPN Taxi

motor vehicle

The Toyota JPN Taxi is a hybrid electric taxi developed by Toyota, designed to meet accessibility and environmental standards set by the Japanese government.[1][2] Launched in 2017, it was created to replace the Toyota Comfort model and is primarily used in Japan, though it has also been exported to markets such as Hong Kong and Thailand.

Toyota JPN Taxi
A Toyota JPN Taxi used by Nihon Kotsu
Overview
ManufacturerToyota
Model codeNTP10
Also calledToyota Comfort Hybrid (Hong Kong)
Toyota Thai Taxi (Thailand)
ProductionOctober 2017 – present
AssemblyJapan: Susono, Shizuoka (Toyota Motor East Japan); Ōhira, Miyagi (Toyota Motor East Japan)
DesignerHiroshi Kayukawa
Body and chassis
ClassTaxi
Body style5-door MPV
LayoutFront-engine, front-wheel-drive
PlatformToyota B platform
Doors
RelatedToyota Sienta Hybrid (XP170)
Powertrain
Engine1.5 L 1NZ-FXP I4
Electric motor45 kW (61 PS) 2LM AC synchronous
Transmission1-speed planetary gear
Hybrid drivetrainFull hybrid (THS II)
BatteryNickel–metal hydride
Dimensions
Wheelbase2,750 mm (108.3 in)
Length4,400 mm (173.2 in)
Width1,695 mm (66.7 in)
Height1,750 mm (68.9 in)
Chronology
PredecessorToyota Comfort/Toyota Crown Sedan

History

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The JPN Taxi was first shown as a concept at the 43rd Tokyo Motor Show in 2013 and entered production in 2017. Its development was driven by the Japanese government's mandate for a "universal design" for taxis, aimed at better serving all passengers, including those with disabilities. The model was also designed to meet stricter emissions standards and has become an iconic part of public transportation in Japan.

Features & Usage

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The JPN Taxi features a hybrid powertrain using Toyota's THS II hybrid system, combining a 1.5-liter gasoline engine with an electric motor. The vehicle is designed for accessibility, with electrically operated sliding rear doors and a spacious interior, including a ramp for wheelchair users. It is equipped with advanced safety features such as collision sensors and multiple airbags. The JPN Taxi has been widely adopted in Japan, especially in Tokyo, where it is a popular choice for taxi companies, supported by government subsidies. It was also introduced in Hong Kong under the name Toyota Comfort Hybrid [3] and, more recently, in Thailand as the Toyota Thai Taxi.[4]

References

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  1. "Standard Specifications Universal Design Taxi Certification Model" (PDF). mlit.go.jp. Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism.
  2. Kelly, Tim (21 May 2019). "Designed by committee, Toyota's Japan Taxi becomes an expensive Olympic symbol". Reuters.
  3. Chan (2019-01-09). "Opposite Fare". Opposite Lock. US. Archived from the original on 2019-05-04. Retrieved 2019-05-05.
  4. Lye, Gerard (2023-03-27). "Bangkok 2023: Toyota Thai Taxi – liquefied petroleum gas hybrid concept based on JPN Taxi with local livery". paultan.org. Retrieved 2023-10-27.