Established in August 2014, the Toyota Mobility Foundation was envisioned to support the development of a more mobile society. The Foundation aims to support strong mobility systems while eliminating disparities in mobility. It utilizes Toyota’s expertise in technology, safety, and the environment, working in partnership with universities, government, non-profit organizations, research institutions and other organizations to address mobility issues around the world. Programs include resolving urban transportation problems, expanding the utilization of personal mobility, and developing solutions for next-generation mobility.
Over the last few decades, India has witnessed a fast-paced urban growth of its cities accompanied by population and economic growth. This rapid urbanization has led to multiple social and environmental issues that are currently being faced by several metro cities in the country, including those related to satisfying the mobility needs of its people. As per reports by the United Nations, India is projected to add four new megacities by 2030 and its urban population is expected to grow to 814 million by 2050. The current scenario has resulted in various challenges of congestion and pollution, but conversely, has created a great opportunity for OEMs and innovators to develop viable and sustainable modes of transportation that are cost-effective, convenient and easily accessible for all.
Keeping in mind the challenges and opportunities arising out of this rapidly growing urbanization, Toyota Mobility Foundation (TMF) in collaboration with WRI India Ross Center for Sustainable Cities, jointly initiated Station Access and Mobility Program (STAMP) focusing on high-quality first and last-mile connectivity solutions to urban mass transit, namely the Metro. It was an attempt to support the Government initiatives to enable mass transportation by increasing ridership and seamless mobility for the public.
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So far, this multi-city initiative has worked with the metro rail agencies and other partners in Bangalore, Hyderabad, Kochi and most recently in Mumbai, to improve the first and last-mile connectivity and making it easier for the public to access mass transit metro stations. They both have also agreed to work together to enhance metro accessibility through multi-modal mobility solutions in seven Indian cities by 2021 (which will be over half of the operational metro networks in the country).
Additionally, TMF and WRI have been working closely with other innovative mobility operators in India such as Bounce, Mobycy, Bykerr, Quickride & Constapark, to support their initiatives to deliver innovative solutions for a hassle-free urban commute. At a recent event held in Bangalore, TMF in close cooperation and collaboration with WRI, conducted an interactive session with Toyota’s Japan R&D Center experts, along with Bounce, Red Bus and HopOn, to discuss mobility challenges in Indian metro cities and their possible solutions.