Toyota's moon rover has been named an SUV
The device will go to the Earth satellite in 2027
Japanese space agency JAXA and Toyota Motor Corporation have revealed the name chosen for the manned lunar vehicle. It is called the Lunar Cruiser by analogy with the Toyota Land Cruiser SUV.
The press service of the Japanese manufacturer explained that the name chosen for the lunar rover is associated with “quality, durability and reliability” - the three main characteristics of the Land Cruiser.
Toyota and JAXA signed an agreement to jointly develop a lunar rover in the summer of 2019. Work on the project will begin in early 2020, with every element of the Lunar Cruiser prototype. Prepared in a simulator tested at high temperatures and heavy weights. The equipment located in the cabin was simulated on a computer.
A test prototype, which will be based on one of Toyota's current models, is due to be fully completed in 2022. The experimental lunar rover will have smaller dimensions and will undergo serious tests on Earth. Once completed, the company will begin assembling the final version of the Lunar Cruiser. It will be 6 meters long, 5,2 meters wide and 3,8 meters high.
The cockpit with an area of 13 square meters will have an air supply system and is designed for two astronauts. According to Toyota's plans, the car should fly to the moon in 2027.
