Toyota Research Institute

Toyota Research Institute (TRI) was established in 2016 by Toyota Motor Corporation with an initial $1 billion investment over five years to accelerate research in artificial intelligence, robotics, vehicular automation, and advanced materials. Headquartered in Silicon Valley near Stanford University, with additional offices in Cambridge, Massachusetts, TRI aims to develop technologies that improve safety, sustainability, and mobility for all people, including the elderly and those with disabilities.

Led by CEO Dr. Gill Pratt, a former DARPA official and renowned roboticist, TRI bridges fundamental AI research and practical product development. The institute collaborates with top universities such as MIT and Stanford, investing $50 million over five years to establish joint AI research centers. TRI’s research spans human-centered AI, autonomous driving, robotics for indoor and outdoor mobility, energy and materials science, and large behavior models.

TRI’s mission is to create safer vehicles, develop robots that amplify human abilities, and discover new materials for energy storage and conversion. The company emphasizes a human-first approach, aiming to enable freedom and independence through technology. TRI also established Toyota Research Institute – Advanced Development (TRI-AD) in Tokyo as a joint venture with Denso and Aisin to unify Toyota's software for automated driving, which later evolved into Woven Planet Holdings (now Woven by Toyota).

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TRI focuses on research and development rather than commercial robot products. Their robotics efforts include advanced humanoid and mobility robots designed to assist humans, improve safety, and enhance accessibility. TRI’s robotics lab develops prototypes and experimental platforms for indoor and outdoor autonomous mobility and human-robot interaction.

• Human-centered AI and robotics for mobility assistance and safety.
• Autonomous driving and vehicular automation technologies.
• Development of AI systems integrating perception, planning, and control for robots and vehicles.
• Research on materials science to improve energy storage and lightweight components.
• Robotics platforms designed to amplify human capabilities and enable new forms of interaction.

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• Backed by Toyota Motor Corporation with strong financial and strategic support.
• $1 billion initial investment plus ongoing funding for long-term research.
• Collaboration with leading academic institutions ensures cutting-edge innovation.
• Leadership by Dr. Gill Pratt, a respected figure in robotics and AI.
• Focus on high-impact societal challenges such as aging populations and climate change.
• Integration with Toyota’s broader mobility ecosystem, including Woven by Toyota.
• Diverse research portfolio balancing fundamental science and applied technology.
• Growing team of 200–500 employees with over half holding PhDs, fostering deep expertise.

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