Toyota’s TJ
Cruiser project lead Mai Takeiuchi explained that Toyota believes that in terms
of SUV buyers, there are urbanites who value style, and on-the-go consumers who
want long-lasting products with convenience. The on-the-go consumers love
outdoors and want to get out to nature, according to Takeiuchi.
Enter the TJ
Cruiser, which has the luggage capacity of a van and the design of an SUV. Even
the car’s name reflects its mission: T is for “toolbox,” while J stands for
“joy,” which, although an odd combo in English, does convey the durability of
the car with its many tool-finish surfaces.
You can see
that the hood and other exterior and interior panels have a durable, finely
pebbled coating that provides a drippy, durable surface for resting equipment
and tools. It’s designed as a workhorse, in the tradition of vehicles like the
Honda Element and the Toyota FJ Cruiser, but in a compact package that’s
probably more practical for urban drivers.
There’s
ample cabin space, which Toyota says can be used like a “convenient tool.” It’s
interior volume is made up of large modular cargo space, with easy access via a
sliding rear door. The idea is to maximize use of space, per Takeiuchi, “as we
do in Japanese homes.”
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