Exploring Next-Generation Mobility Concepts for Urban Development

On October 21, 2025, JPI (Japan Planning Institute) will host a seminar featuring Takumi Kato, the head of the Tohoku branch and Design Studio of Mitsubishi Estate Design Co., Ltd. This event will focus on the company's vision for next-generation mobility in urban development and the business opportunities that arise from it.

In recent years, Mitsubishi Estate Design has been exploring a new transportation framework dubbed the "Seamless Mobility System (SMS)". This system aims to seamlessly integrate urban landscapes, architecture, and human mobility. During this seminar, Kato will illuminate various aspects of the SMS, particularly the innovative "Modular VTOL System (Vertical Take-Off and Landing)" which they have been developing since around 2021.

The core goal of this initiative isn't merely the creation of airborne vehicles, but rather to investigate the untapped potential within urban environments and architecture by leveraging the SMS concept. As transportation hubs diversify vertically—spanning both ground and rooftop levels—buildings would transform into more open, versatile spaces, reshaping the overall cityscape. Kato plans to discuss how this shift could lead to the development of urban spaces within the intermediate levels of skyscrapers, along with improvements in evacuation protocols for individuals with mobility challenges.

Seminar Overview

The seminar will delve into multiple topics, including:
1. Concept of SMS
2. Family of SMS
3. Product Overviews
- Kickboard Scooter
- Trunkbot
- Podbus (initial design version)
- Shuttle
4. Concept of Modular VTOL System
5. Design Types of Modular VTOL System
6. Building Composition in Modular VTOL System
7. Structure of Shuttle Lift System
8. Transformation of Building Typology
9. Overview of Building Typology
- Rooftop V_PORT
- Rooftop Logistic Center
- Core Structure for Standard Floors
- Local Mobility HUB for Lower Floors
- Low-rise 3Dimensional Park
10. Q&A Session
11. Networking Session
Through our traditional networking event, participants will have the chance to exchange business cards and foster connections, potentially leading to exciting business collaborations.

Attendance Options

Participants can opt to attend via:

- In-person at the venue
- Live streaming
- Archived viewing (available for two weeks)

Participation Fee

- Individual fee: ¥37,830 (including tax)
- Group fee (2nd person onwards, from the same company): ¥32,830
- Special rate for local public employees: Up to two can attend for ¥11,000 each (venue or live streaming only, same attendance mode required)

For further details and registration, please visit: JPI Seminar Registration

Post-seminar, attendees can still reach out with queries to our speakers and network for further inquiries.
The seminar serves as an ideal platform for building valuable connections among participants and facilitators, fostering future business innovations.

Contact Information

Japan Planning Institute
5-2-32 Minami Azabu, Minato-ku, Tokyo 106-0047, Japan
TEL: +81-3-5793-9761
FAX: +81-3-5793-9767
Website: JPI Official Site

About JPI

For over half a century, JPI has continued providing valuable information in the form of exclusive seminars aimed at senior executives and managers, bridging the gap between government, academia, and the private sector—contributing to national policy and project advancements.