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Woven City Embraces Human-Centric Philosophy in Its Design

Discussion in the third installment of a six-part series delves into remarks by Operating Officer James Kuffner regarding Woven City, a project deeply rooted in the legacy of the city's founder, Sakichi Toyoda's pursuit of fostering joy.

Implementing Human-Centered Philosophy in Woven City Development
Implementing Human-Centered Philosophy in Woven City Development

Woven City Embraces Human-Centric Philosophy in Its Design

In the aftermath of the Great East Japan Earthquake in 2011, Toyota Motor East Japan found a new home in Susono City, Shizuoka Prefecture. This historic move marked the beginning of a new chapter, leading to the birth of Woven City, a prototype of the future started by Toyota in February 2021.

The earthquake caused significant loss of life and was an economic disaster for the Tohoku region. In response, Toyota and President Akio Toyoda decided to create jobs and build a factory in the Tohoku region to help recover from the disaster. However, not all workers could move to Tohoku or find new livelihoods there, so some remained in Susono.

It was in this city that the concept of Woven City was born. Akio, in a video message, promised that Woven City will always prioritize humans. This human-centered concept is a philosophy inherited from the founding era of Sakichi Toyoda, the father of Toyota.

James Kuffner, who also serves as CEO of Woven Planet Holdings, explained the history of Woven City. He stated that the city aims to accelerate the development of new technology to help humans for the future. The values and spirit of consideration for others passed on by previous team members will be inherited by all members developing Woven City.

Woven City is not being built on a vacant lot, but on a place with a history woven by its predecessors. Toyota Motor East Japan has grown up alongside Susono City, and the city recently celebrated its 50th anniversary. The city's strategic location makes it an ideal site for integrating Toyota's innovation with regional recovery and development efforts.

Although Woven City was born in Japan, its scope can be extended more broadly in regions all over the world. The employees of Toyota are considered co-founders of Woven City, working together to create a sustainable and livable city of the future.

The 2021 Ordinary General Shareholders' Meeting discussed comments by Operating Officer James Kuffner on Woven City. The meeting highlighted the commitment of Toyota to invest in a high technology living laboratory to revitalize the area and create new value in Susono.

In conclusion, Woven City is more than just a prototype of the future. It is a testament to Toyota's human-centered philosophy and commitment to innovation, sustainability, and community development. Located in Susono City of Shizuoka Prefecture, Japan, Woven City is poised to make a significant impact on the world, one step at a time.

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