03/11/2025
At the Japan Mobility Show 2025, Toyota unveiled the concept device dubbed Walk Me an autonomous mobility chair designed to tackle terrain that traditional wheelchairs struggle with, including staircases, uneven surfaces, and indoor to outdoor transitions. The chair features four robotic, foldable “legs” instead of standard wheels, allowing it to climb stairs or crouch to floor level so the user can interact at ground height.
Why It’s a Big Deal
Accessibility & inclusion: For millions who face mobility barriers due to steps, curbs or uneven ground, this tech could open up new independence.
Innovation in mobility: Rather than just wheels, the leg mechanism shows Toyota is pushing into robotic mobility solutions blending chair and robot into a hybrid mobility aid.
Cultural shift: This is part of Toyota’s strategy to “diversify mobility” beyond cars, emphasizing freedom of movement for “all people.”
The Bigger Picture
Mobility tech is evolving fast from electric vehicles to assistive robotics. Devices like Walk Me suggest the “vehicle” of the future isn’t necessarily a car, but a device adapted to the user and environment. If such mobility aids become practical and affordable, cities and infrastructure may need to rethink accessibility standards (ramps, floors, access routes) with these devices in mind.
âś… Bottom Line
Toyota’s concept Walk Me chair isn’t yet a production product, but it’s a bold preview of what personal, robotic mobility might look like for people with limited mobility, aging populations, or anyone wanting seamless access across varied terrain.
