This Toyota self-driving bubble EV transports kids across town alone

At the Japan Mobility Show 2025, Toyota unveiled Mobi, a fully autonomous electric bubble car designed specifically to transport elementary school children across town without adult supervision. As part of Toyota’s “Mobility for All” initiative, Mobi aims to expand independent travel options for young children by leveraging an AI-driven system that controls navigation, speed, traffic management, and obstacle detection. The vehicle is equipped with multiple sensors and cameras to maintain situational awareness, while an integrated AI assistant named UX Friend communicates with the child passenger, providing instructions and engagement throughout the journey. The Mobi features a distinctive rounded design with a gullwing canopy and high-visibility colors to enhance safety and presence in traffic. Its interior is tailored for single-child occupancy, using comfortable, textured materials to create a secure and inviting environment. Although technical specifications remain undisclosed, the vehicle is described as compact and lightweight, optimized for urban use. However, despite its innovative approach, Mobi faces significant regulatory challenges, as current laws generally