Imperial has entered into a partnership with Toyota Konpon Research Institute (TOYOTA KONPON) to explore research aimed at shaping a better future.

This collaboration is centered around a series of interdisciplinary workshops designed to facilitate future-thinking, enabling innovation, cross-disciplinary research, and technological development for the benefit of global society. As part of this initiative, we have actively involved Imperial’s early career researchers, providing them with a platform to bring fresh perspectives and expertise to these discussions.

The Toyota Konpon Research Institute ( TOYOTA KONPON) is a specialised research division within Toyota Group, dedicated to exploring pathways to a better future and addressing how to approach the challenges of tomorrow. The term “Konpon” is derived from the Japanese word meaning “fundamental root” or “foundation”, underscoring the institute’s commitment to investigating core research principles across a range of disciplines, including the natural sciences, humanities, engineering and advanced technologies.

The primary mission of TOYOTA KONPON is to contribute to the sustainable development of society by examining foundational principles that shape global progress. Through cutting-edge research and strategic collaborations, the institute seeks to uncover innovative approaches to the happiness and progress of humanity and to the harmony with the Earth and all living things. TOYOTA KONPON actively collaborates with academic institutions and research organisations to examine future societal trends, assess the implications of emerging scientific and technological developments, and cultivate the next generation of researchers and engineers.

Watanabe-san, Director of Toyota Konpon Research Institute (TOYOTA KONPON), highlighted the significance of the collaboration: “Collaborating with Imperial College London to develop future research themes has been an immensely intriguing and enjoyable experience. We have gained substantial insights from the esteemed individuals at Imperial. We eagerly anticipate continuing this highly meaningful initiative, enhancing it further, and jointly shaping the future.”

Cross-Cultural Synergy: Learning and Growing Together

As part of this new partnership, TOYOA KONPON and Imperial College London, facilitated a series of intensive workshops, convened in both London and Japan. These workshops brought together over 60 distinguished experts from diverse academic and professional backgrounds within both institutions, with the overarching objective of conceptualizing future technological advancements capable of driving societal progress.

“Partnering with TOYOTA KONPON has been an enriching experience. The exchange of ideas between our institutions has led to unexpected insights and a deeper understanding of our shared goals.” Professor Mary Ryan Vice Provost of Research and Enterprise

By leveraging Imperial’s expertise in research methodology, participants engaged in multiple stages of ideation and refinement, ensuring that the proposed challenges and potential research pathways adhered to scientific principles (and thermodynamic constraints!).

Professor Mary Ryan, Vice Provost of Research and Enterprise said:  “Partnering with TOYOTA KONPON has been an enriching experience. The exchange of ideas between our institutions has led to unexpected insights and a deeper understanding of our shared goals. It’s exciting to see how our combined efforts are bringing out the best in each other, and I’m eager to continue exploring the innovative possibilities ahead.”

Building Stronger Bonds: Institutional Partnerships and Their Future

The culmination of these workshops took place at a prestigious training centre by Lake Hamana, Japan, with the support of DENSO. The final presentations showcased a range of ground-breaking concepts with disruptive potential to shape the future with actionable steps for further research and development. 

This initiative aligns with Toyota Group’s unwavering commitment to pioneering technological solutions through collaboration with leading academic and research institutions worldwide.

Beyond the exploration of research topics, the collaboration also facilitated meaningful cross-cultural exchanges, further strengthening our institutional relationship.

As part of the cultural immersion, Imperial College London participants were introduced to the traditional Japanese tea ceremony, "chado," providing them with valuable insights into Japanese customs. 

Prof Ricardo Martinez-Botas, Associate Dean for Industry Partnership (Faculty of Engineering) said “To be engaged in this workshop, that asked big questions, has been illuminating, exciting, and fun. It is great to see a major industrial partner to be interested in this type of big exploration where the gains are very much focused on benefit to humanity; this is aligned with our strategy at Imperial.”

Dr. Jing Pang shared his thoughts on the experience: “It has also been a great pleasure to work with the TKRI team. The cultural and geography differences have not only made the conversation better, but it has also synergised the quality of discussions by utilising the best of both worlds. We are looking forward to deepening our friendship and making a positive future a reality together.”

“Despite physical distance and cultural differences, we share a common perspective on humanity’s challenges. Significant advancements in intelligence have led to new issues to be solved.” Kikuchi-san President of Toyota Konpon Research Institute (TOYOTA KONPON)

Kikuchi-san, President of Toyota Konpon Research Institute (TOYOTA KONPON) emphasised the shared vision for the future:“ Despite physical distance and cultural differences, we share a common perspective on humanity’s challenges. Significant advancements in intelligence have led to new issues to be solved. I hope this marks the beginning of a new collaboration between Imperial and Toyota Group, TOYOTA KONPON, towards a more harmonious and