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Having acquired the reputation of creating some of the most reliable cars on the planet, Toyota is pursuing its plans to attack extraterrestrial terrain.

On March 12, the automaker announced its intention to partner with the Japanese space agency to develop the lunar mobile of the future, a fuel cell-powered monster that allows astronauts to live inside this one without wearing a spacesuit.

Fuel cells use clean energy production methods and emit only water.

A joint agreement between the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) and Toyota allows both companies to officially start rover research and development.

JAXA plans to send manned missions to the Moon between 2029 and 2034.

"The automotive industry has long used the concepts of" hometown "and" country of origin, "said Toyota's president, Akio Toyoda, in a joint statement. However, from now on, by answering environmental questions Global issues, the concept of "planet of origin", from which we all come, will become a very important concept. "

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The goal is to help build a more sustainable future for humanity, said the two companies.

The initial design of the six-wheel pressurized vehicle requires sufficient living space to comfortably accommodate two occupants. In case of emergency, however, the rover could support four crew members.

With a range of over 6,200 miles, the vehicle will be at least 20 feet long, 17 feet wide and 12.4 feet high.

Japanese Space Agency officials said JAXA and Toyota have been working on the project since May 2018.

JAXA officials say that building a sturdy sport utility vehicle for lunar travel presents challenges.

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"Lunar gravity is one-sixth of the Earth's, the moon is a complex terrain with craters, cliffs and hills," said JAXA Vice President Koichi Wakata in a statement. .

Follow Dalvin Brown on Twitter: @Dalvin_Brown

Read or share this story: https://www.usatoday.com/story/money/cars/2019/03/22/toyota-unveils-6-wheeled-vehicle-moon-exploration/3237514002/