Toyota Motor Corporation has revealed that it is exploring the development of a compact drone system designed to support vehicle operations on unpaved roads and rough terrains. The Japanese automaker shared the details in a filing with the Federal Aviation Administration, stating that the potential system would help improve situational awareness in environments where it may not be safe for drivers to leave their vehicles.
According to Toyota’s filing, “By providing the driver with views of the local environment, including potential hazards around and underneath the vehicle, drivers can plan safer routes and improve vehicle operations.” The company explained that most drone flights would remain close to the vehicle, though at times operators might fly them above the treeline to capture aerial videos that help in orientation or terrain mapping.
This development aligns with recent moves by the United States Transportation Department, which in August proposed new regulations to accelerate the deployment of drones beyond the operator’s visual line of sight. These proposed changes aim to support broader commercial applications such as logistics, manufacturing, agriculture, and emergency deliveries.
Toyota has submitted comments to the department’s proposal, referencing its ongoing but previously undisclosed drone project. However, the company has not confirmed any specific plans to implement or commercialise the drone system.
A spokesperson from Toyota stated, “Toyota is constantly working on new technologies in various fields, we do not have any product plans to announce at this time.” Meanwhile, the U.S. Transportation Department noted that relaxing certain requirements “will significantly expand the use-case for drone technologies in areas like manufacturing, farming, energy production, filmmaking, and the movement of products including lifesaving medications.”
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