24 October 2002: Toyota is trying out a whole new way of paying for a car in Japan, by the number of kilometres travelled. The fees consist of a basic monthly fee and a variable fee based on the actual distance for which the vehicle is used.

The system is known as a ‘distance-based lease fee’ method, and is under their brand name of P-Way. It is being tried out in a new car aimed at young people, the WiLL CYPHA, which incorporates advanced network services - G-BOOK - that allow the owner to obtain a wide range of information and to communicate by email for a flat monthly fee.

The information about distance travelled is also sent back by the network services, so that the owner of the car simply gets a bill like his or her mobile phone bill and effectively is a ‘pay as you go’ system.

The WiLL CYPHA is a futuristic-looking vehicle, with a choice of 1.3- and 1.5-litre VVT-i engines and automatic transmission. Despite its ‘concept’ styling, it incorporates all the usual safety systems. There’s also a 4WD option.

The G-BOOK system uses a dedicated module for navigation, communication and entertainent, and uses voice as well as images and text, with emails, for instance, being read out in a synthesised voice.

The design of the interior is based on a circular theme, with a large centre cluster, which includes the G-BOOK terminal, concentrates the dial-type automatic air conditioner controls, audio control, and center console, and is arranged for high visibility.