June 21, 2023 – Toyota Unveils Innovative AI Tool for Streamlined Car Design Process Toyota, the renowned automobile manufacturer, has recently unveiled a groundbreaking tool powered by AIGC (Artificial Intelligence Generated Content). Developed by Toyota Research Institute (TRI), this cutting-edge tool aims to expedite the car design process for their employees.
Unlike conventional methods, this advanced tool leverages the power of AIGC during the initial stages of the creative process. By converting descriptive text inputs into vivid visual representations, it empowers human designers to effortlessly select and refine their design choices.
It is important to note that this tool is not intended to replace human designers entirely, nor does it autonomously create entirely new car designs. Instead, it collaborates with designers by generating conceptual images that align with their specifications. Factors such as chassis dimensions, aerodynamic coefficients, fuel efficiency, handling capabilities, safety features, and even ergonomic considerations are taken into account during the image generation process.
For instance, a Toyota designer can simply input keywords like “fluidic lines” or “SUV aesthetics” along with engineering requirements such as “low aerodynamic resistance.” Based on these inputs, the tool swiftly generates a variety of sample images to assist designers in their creative endeavors.
Avinash Balachandran, Director of Toyota Research Institute’s Human Interaction and Driving department, shared insights during an interview with international media. He emphasized that while AIGC is commonly used by designers for inspiration, it still struggles to handle the intricate engineering and safety factors crucial in practical car design. Toyota’s pioneering technology combines the brand’s traditional engineering prowess with state-of-the-art AIGC capabilities, resulting in a powerful tool that enhances the creative process for designers.
