Toyota Motor Corporation (Toyota) and Nishi-Nippon Railroad (Nishitetsu) have begun full-scale operations of the Toyota-developed multi-modal mobility app called “My Route” for smartphones.
The app provides a route search which combines various modes of transport, including public transport, automobiles, bicycles and walking. Users can make with reservations and payments as required, and the app also provides shop and event information.
The app was launched in Fukuoka City and Kitakyushu City, in collaboration with service providers in the areas providing traffic, shopping, and event information.
A trial in Fukuoka City sought to verify the viability of the app, understand areas for improvement, and provide more convenient services for residents and tourists.
The project will also be expanded to include the Kyushu Railway Company (JR Kyushu).
The app was download about 30,000 times during the one-year trial period, and 80% of survey respondents said they were “satisfied” after using it. The service proved to be popular and commercially viable.
As the service begins full-scale operation, service areas have been expanded from Fukuoka City, where the trials were conducted, to now include Kitakyushu City.
As it moves to full-scale operation, the App will support Toyota Wallet and Toyota Share, its car-sharing service.
Versions in Chinese (traditional and simplified) and Korean languages are planned in addition to the current English and Japanese.
In Fukuoka City a digital ticketing service is planned for the Fukuoka Tourist City Pass for foreign tourists in Fukuoka City, jointly provided by Fukuoka City, Nishitetsu, JR Kyushu, and Showa Bus, in addition to a One-day Pass provided by Nishitetsu Bus Kitakyushu will also be offered for sale.
The convenience of non-public transport options will also be improved with a planned collaboration with Daiichi Koutsu Sangyou’s Motaku taxi booking service.
Collaborations with Shinkansen (bullet train) and highway bus will also provide support for long distance travel, with Fukuoka City and Kitakyushu City being the starting point or destination.
Services offered will be gradually expanded with links to JR Kyushu Net Yoyaku, an online ticket booking service for the Kyushu Shinkansen operated by JR Kyushu and highwaybus.com, a booking and payment site for reserved-seating highway buses operated by Keio Dentetsu Bus.
