Toyota has released details of a new concept vehicle it has designed that it will be showcasing at the 2013 Geneva motor show, in the form of the Toyota i-Road EV.
The Toyota i-Road EV is a three-wheel vehicle that leans like a motorcycle and has been designed as an electric city car, which Toyota hopes will be the future of urban motoring.
Innovative Design and Technology
The Toyota i-Road has been designed to lower its center of gravity like a motorcycle as it turns corners and is fitted with a Toyota-designed Active Lean system. The Toyota i-Road Active Lean system decides on the angle of tilt based on the steering angle, gyro sensor, and the vehicle’s speed. This innovative system ensures that the vehicle remains stable and provides a unique driving experience that combines the agility of a motorcycle with the stability of a car.
The i-Road’s two front wheels are each powered by their own 2kW electric motor. The batteries give a range of 30 miles and take three hours to fully recharge from a household socket. A Twizy takes three and a half hours to juice up and has a claimed 50-62-mile range. This makes the i-Road an efficient option for short urban commutes, reducing the need for frequent recharging and making it a practical choice for city dwellers.
Comfort and Practicality
Unlike a motorcycle, the new Toyota i-Road is fitted with a completely enclosed cabin. This design choice provides protection from the elements, making it a more comfortable option for daily use in various weather conditions. The enclosed cabin also enhances safety, offering a more secure environment for the driver.
The compact size of the i-Road makes it ideal for navigating through congested city streets and finding parking in tight spaces. Its small footprint means it can easily maneuver through traffic, reducing travel time and stress for urban drivers. Additionally, the electric powertrain ensures that the i-Road produces zero emissions, contributing to a cleaner and more sustainable urban environment.
For more images of the new Toyota i-Road EV concept vehicle, jump over to the Car website.
Future of Urban Mobility
Toyota’s vision for the i-Road is to revolutionize urban mobility by providing a solution that addresses the challenges of city driving. The i-Road’s compact size, electric powertrain, and innovative leaning technology make it a forward-thinking option for the future of transportation. As cities become more crowded and environmental concerns grow, vehicles like the i-Road offer a promising alternative to traditional cars and motorcycles.
The i-Road’s design also opens up possibilities for shared mobility services. With its ease of use and low operating costs, the i-Road could be integrated into car-sharing programs, providing a convenient and eco-friendly option for city residents who do not own a vehicle. This could help reduce the number of cars on the road, alleviating traffic congestion and lowering pollution levels.
The Toyota i-Road EV represents a significant step forward in the evolution of urban transportation. Its combination of innovative technology, practicality, and environmental benefits make it a compelling option for the future of city driving. As Toyota continues to develop and refine this concept, it will be interesting to see how the i-Road and similar vehicles shape the landscape of urban mobility in the years to come.
Source: Engadget
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