Toyota Breathes Life into the Beloved Cat Bus--Unveiling the Meticulous Process Behind the Anticipated Design
The much-anticipated APM Cat Bus, a low-speed mobility vehicle designed for Ghibli Park, made its debut on February 27, 2024. The vehicle, a collaboration between Toyota and Studio Ghibli, is modelled on the iconic Cat Bus character from the beloved film, "My Neighbor Totoro."
The APM Cat Bus stands out with its unique design elements. Its "cat brown" sections are raised rather than outlined, and its eyes don't face forward but slightly out to the sides, resembling the character from the film. The license plate number on the APM Cat Bus carries a hidden meaning referencing the film or Studio Ghibli. Although the exact number is not specified, it is common in Studio Ghibli-themed vehicles and merchandise to include subtle references.
The designers, led by Naoki Nagatsu and in collaboration with Studio Ghibli director Goro Miyazaki, paid close attention to details. The steering wheel is centrally located within the vehicle, and the roof, seats, and even the nails are lined with fur or similar materials. The steering wheel, instrument panel, and other details are coloured to match the cat's fur.
Adjusting tire pressure was crucial to ensure the APM Cat Bus sits level. The seat covers are removable for easy cleaning. Light gray is used in the space between the mouth and teeth, while the "cat lips" color and "cat tooth" white are used for the lips and teeth respectively. The nails of the APM Cat Bus are done in a slightly different shade of white.
The design process involved paying attention to how the APM Cat Bus looks from a child's height. Director Goro Miyazaki placed particular importance on the otherworldly eyes of the APM Cat Bus. There are slight differences between the data and the real three-dimensional molding of the APM Cat Bus's colour boundaries.
The APM Cat Bus is based on Toyota's Accessible People Mover (APM), making it a practical and charming addition to Ghibli Park. The APM Cat Bus is more than just a mobility vehicle; it's a tribute to a beloved Studio Ghibli character and a delightful experience for visitors of all ages.
[1] The iconic Cat Bus character from "My Neighbor Totoro" is a popular and beloved character in Studio Ghibli's film.
[1] Visitors of all ages will appreciate the APM Cat Bus, a delightful and practical addition to Ghibli Park, as its design is modeled on the popular and beloved Cat Bus character from Studio Ghibli's iconic film, "My Neighbor Totoro."
[2] Incorporating technology and gadgets, the APM Cat Bus's creators have ensured a unique lifestyle experience for riders, as the vehicle's details, such as the fur-lined seats and removable covers, resemble the character's physical attributes. Furthermore, the designers have thoughtfully included subtle references to Studio Ghibli in the vehicle's design, such as the hidden meaning in the license plate number.
