Airport News Japan

Introduction of Toyota’s i-REAL for Personal Mobility at Centrair

i-REAL 2007 Tokyo Motor Show model

On June 18, Central Japan International Airport (or “Centrair,” in Tokoname, Aichi Prefecture) announced that it will introduce the i-REAL - the next-generation electric vehicle developed by Toyota Motor Corporation - starting on June 27 to guide travelers and carry out security duties in the airport terminal.

The i-REAL is a single-passenger three-wheeled electric vehicle that can be driven in various modes according to changes in the driver’s body position. Toyota developed it for personal mobility (i.e. a single-person transportation tool) “in response to demand by individuals who want freedom of movement and in pursuit of harmony in society.” Since three years ago, function and equipment tests, trial runs and practice serving customers have been conducted at the airport to make the vehicle practical for use. This will be the first time the i-REAL will be used for regular duties outside of special events.

According to Toyota, “We believe that while the introduction of the i-REAL will relate to an improved work environment and service at the airport, it will at the same time make Centrair into a symbol as an advanced, highly convenient airport where cutting-edge technology can be seen.” With its introduction, the practical utility of the i-REAL will continue to be studied with the aim of further improving precision to widen the areas in which it is used.

In the past, the airport has displayed a proactive attitude towards incorporating advanced technology into airport duties, such as by introducing the U.S.-made Segway (a two-wheeled electric vehicle on which the driver stands) for security and conducting guided tours of the airport.

I-REAL (Toyota)Central Japan International Airport (Centrair)