Designers Revising Auto Architecture Towards an Unforeseen Method of Transport
In the world of marine transportation, Toyota has made a splash with its unique approach to boat design. The company, renowned for its automotive expertise, has ventured into the marine business since 1997, bringing its car manufacturing prowess to the high seas.
At the helm of Toyota's marine design is Tetsuya Iwata, Assistant Manager of the Vision Design Division. Iwata and his team have conducted comprehensive interviews with marine experts to capture firsthand insights about boat usage, ensuring that their designs cater to the specific needs of maritime travel.
One of the most striking features of Toyota's boats is the PONAM-31, a sport utility cruiser. The rear section of the PONAM-31, which houses the engine, has been expanded to convey a sense of robustness. The hull design intentionally deviates from traditional boat designs, and the distinctive grey exterior, reminiscent of a car's aesthetic, amplifies its unique persona.
Toyota's boat design employs a unique touch "that can only be added by a carmaker". This is evident in the PONAM-31's use of aluminum alloy for the hull, a decision driven by a pursuit of enhanced performance. The use of aluminum hull counters traditional pleasure boat norms that have often questioned its durability.
Designing a boat presents unique challenges compared to car design. Standing passengers are rarely considered in car design, but the time people spend on their feet is a key aspect of boat usage. Innovative space design is critical to amplifying the Fun to Marine experience in boat design. Venturing out to the sea offers a private sanctuary, free from traffic and congestion, emphasizing the importance of the exhilarating and emotive elements associated with cars.
To tackle these challenges, Toyota applies its car manufacturing expertise to boat design primarily by adapting automotive technologies and engines to marine environments. They use automotive engines specifically tuned for marine applications, such as diesel engines from the Land Cruiser Prado, to power their boats, combining automotive reliability with boating needs.
Toyota solves the challenges of adapting land vehicle engines and control systems to operate effectively and safely in a marine setting by retuning engines for marine use, developing specialized electronic assist systems, and using materials such as aluminum alloy for the hull. The outcome is boats like the Ponam 31, which offers both automotive-grade engine performance and advanced navigational aids tailored for marine safety and ease of operation.
In addition, Toyota ventures into marine business driven by a commitment to offer freedom of mobility. The PONAM-31's distinctive color scheme, Zipping freely across the ocean, provides a tangible Fun to Drive experience in boats. The design of the rear section of the PONAM-31 draws on design principles gleaned from automotive exterior styling.
Iwata and his team even went as far as trying fishing onboard to scrutinize and pinpoint any areas for design improvement. This dedication to detail and user experience sets Toyota's boats apart in the marine industry.
The following page presents the luxurious Lexus yacht, ushering into a world beyond the ordinary.
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