Are you serious about this?
On January 6, 2020, just after announcing the Woven City project at CES in Las Vegas, Akio had the following talk with Toyota Times Editor-in-Chief Teruyuki Kagawa.
Kagawa
We’ve just heard you make a stunning announcement as the new year begins. This announcement really took me by surprise. Are you serious about this?
Akio
Well, having announced it in front of so many people, it’d be a bit of a problem if I was just kidding.
Kagawa
That would be a problem, yes.
Akio
Yes, it would. [Laughs]
Kagawa
So you’re serious about this, then?
Akio
I am. And now I have to do it, don’t I?
Kagawa
You do, don’t you?
Akio
I’ve got no choice.
It wasn’t long after this exchange that COVID- triggered lockdowns worldwide, putting freedom of mobility on hold for untold numbers of people. This marked an unexpected start for a project that Akio had reassured Kagawa he was serious about.
Nonetheless, one year later, in February 2021, Akio and his team proved that the dream of Woven City is coming true.
Message to partners for the future
On February 23, which is “Mt. Fuji Day” in Japan, a groundbreaking ceremony signaled the start of Woven City’s construction.
To commemorate the milestone, a Woven City video message for partners around the world collaborating for the future has been released.
Toyota Times is happy to share the video and Akio’s message in its entirety.
The video opens with the beauty of Mt. Fuji—an inspirational symbol of Woven City. Why is Toyota making a city? What are Akio and his team attempting with Woven City? Please watch the video to find out.
