The JPN Taxi concept is actually a rehashing of the concept of the same name which the company presented at the same show two years ago. This time it looks closer to production than its design-centric predecessor.
The idea is to replace the aging fleet of old Toyota Crown sedans that transport passengers around the Japanese metropolis with a new form that takes some inspiration from the Hackney carriages of London. That means a more upright hatchback/minivan form, with neo-classic styling (done up in black, naturally) and room for a wheelchair on board.
While the TX5 went with a gasoline-electric hybrid powertrain, Toyota is developing a new LPG-electric system for its taxi. Another difference: Instead of suicide doors, the JPN Taxi concept uses minivan-style sliding rear doors to enhance ingress and egress even in crowded spaces. Our team on the ground at the Tokyo Big Sight exposition center will be on the lookout for the new taxi to debut alongside the S-FR, Kikai, and FCV Plus concepts this week, so watch this space.
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