Car company Toyota has unveiled an autonomous, fully electric concept vehicle that could function as a communal taxi, delivery truck or mobile shop, depending on the time of day.
The e-Palette prototype made its debut at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas yesterday, presented by Toyota president Akio Toyoda.
The company aims to create a network of the pod-like vehicles, overhauling current mobility systems by offering a service that accommodates the needs of passengers, businesses and logistics operations.
"The automobile industry is clearly amidst its most dramatic period of change, as technologies like electrification, connected and automated driving are making significant progress," said Toyoda.
"Toyota remains committed to making ever better cars," he continued. "Just as important, we are developing mobility solutions to help everyone enjoy their lives, and we are doing our part to create an ever-better society for the next 100 years and beyond."
Designed for a wide range of uses, the automated cuboid volume has wheels at each corner of the low flat floor, freeing up as much space as possible on the inside and offering maximum flexibility.
The vehicles could be produced in three sizes, between four and seven metres in length, to accommodate different amounts of cargo. Companies could customise the interiors to their requirements, and update the digital exterior panels with their branding.
Alternatively, the pods could remain ...