SAMURAI 1/18scale Toyota Century Open (Black) Limited to 1,000 [No.KSR18052BK]

  To celebrate the ascension of the Emperor to the Imperial Japanese throne, the coronation parade through the streets of Tokyo featured a special Toyota Century convertible.
Specifications required for the coronation parade were:
1. Available in Japan
2. Vehicle class higher and larger than other vehicles in the convoy
3. Rear seats of a specific size
4. High safety specifications (collision safety, automatic braking, etc.)
5. Low environmental impact (fuel efficiency, exhaust filtration, etc.)

In addition, for the purpose of the ceremony the following points should also be considered.
A. Visibility of Their Majesties the Emperor and Empress in the back seat from the roadside.
B. Conformance to the policy (2018) established by the Cabinet Office regarding the procurement of environmental products.
C. After confirming the strength of the car body and conducting a test run, it is expected that the car will be delivered by the deadline before the ceremony.
D. A system is in place to continuously provide maintenance services that do not interfere with operation.
E. Effective utilization after the parade and easy daily maintenance.
(From Materials Secretariat of Succession Ceremony)

  After several vehicles were assessed, the Toyota Century was finally confirmed for the coronation parade. Not only was the roof removed to make it open, in order to provide good visibility of Their Majesties from the roadside, the position of the rear seats and the backrest angle were adjusted. Additional modifications included sashless windows, (front) seats with integrated seatbelt, and revised door grips. The official announcement does not specifically mention the manufacturer of the modifications.
  Body size of 5,340mm (length), 1,930mm (width), and 1,400mm (height), compares to normal specifications of 5,335mm (length), 1,930mm (width), and 1,505mm (height). It is probable the additional + 5mm in length is due to the thickness of the bracket for attaching the imperial number plate.
  Special vehicles such as this are often produced several at a time, including spares, but this Century Open is the one and only. After the ceremony, it will be managed by the Cabinet Office and will be effectively used by the Japanese government. The imperial number (Emperor 10) has been changed to the usual white number plate (Shinagawa 359 and 1110 ... the day of the coronation parade).

■ Resin model
■ Shield body