Toyota 'Winglet' a Painfully Slow Way to Get to Work
Is this a next-generation Segway? Toyota has begun testing its “Personal Mobility Robot” on public sidewalks in Tsukuba, Japan.
Called the “Winglet,” the new personal transport assistance robot can be ridden in a standing position and was created “with the aim of contributing to the development of a society where mobility is safe, freely accessible, and fun,” according to the Japanese automaker.
The trials are scheduled to run until the end of March 2016 with this year’s tests emphasizing safety and compatibility with pedestrians and other traffic. National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology (AIST) personnel and Tsukuba municipal employees will use the Winglet on sidewalks to commute to and from work.
From 2014 onward, the testing will focus on aspects of functionality and convenience, including whether or not there will be demand for such a product. Approximately 80 people will be testing them.
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Jason Siu began his career in automotive journalism in 2003 with Modified Magazine, a property previously held by VerticalScope. As the West Coast Editor, he played a pivotal role while also extending his expertise to Modified Luxury & Exotics and Modified Mustangs. Beyond his editorial work, Jason authored two notable Cartech books. His tenure at AutoGuide.com saw him immersed in the daily news cycle, yet his passion for hands-on evaluation led him to focus on testing and product reviews, offering well-rounded recommendations to AutoGuide readers. Currently, as the Content Director for VerticalScope, Jason spearheads the content strategy for an array of online publications, a role that has him at the helm of ensuring quality and consistency across the board.
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just walk! Why are ppl so lazy?
Step 1 - Left Step 2 - Right Step 3 - Repeat step 1 Is it seriously that hard for them!?