Toyota Motor is exploring the development of a small drone system to support vehicle operations on unpaved roads and trails. The potential system aims to enhance situational awareness in areas where it is unsafe to exit the vehicle. By providing drivers with views of the local environment, including potential hazards around and underneath the vehicle, they can plan safer routes and improve vehicle operations. The drone system would primarily operate close to the vehicle, with occasional flights above the treeline to capture videos and orient the driver with the terrain.
The announcement comes as the US Transportation Department has proposed new rules to speed up the deployment of drones beyond the visual line of sight of operators. This change is expected to advance commercial uses of drones, such as package deliveries. Toyota submitted comments on the proposal, citing its ongoing project, which was previously unreported. However, the company has not committed to implementing the drone system, stating that it is constantly working on new technologies but has no product plans to announce at this time.
The US Transportation Department believes that eliminating some requirements will significantly expand the use of drone technologies in various areas, including manufacturing, farming, energy production, filmmaking, and the movement of products, such as lifesaving medications. Toyota’s exploration of drone technology highlights the potential for innovation in the automotive industry, particularly in enhancing safety and efficiency in off-road driving.
It’s worth noting that Toyota’s drone system is still in the development phase, and there is no guarantee that it will be implemented. The company’s spokesperson emphasized that there are no product plans to announce at this time. Nevertheless, the proposal by the US Transportation Department and Toyota’s interest in drone technology suggest that the industry is moving towards greater adoption of drones in various applications. As of now, the development of Toyota’s drone system remains a subject of interest, with the potential to improve vehicle operations and safety in challenging environments.