Toyota’s new i-ROAD personal mobility vehicle makes its world debut at the Geneva motor show, a new, flexible form of transport designed for city streets.
It employs a futuristic three wheel design instead of the industry standard four wheel configurations usually employed in cars. The back side of the vehicle sports only one wheel which performs the role of handling the steering functionality of the EV. A pair of compact wheels fitted at the front area of the EV enables it to bend like a motorbike while retaining the comfort and stability of a car. - See more at: http://www.sinbadesign.com/transportation/toyotas-new-i-road-ev-concept/#sthash.lDAVU6xE.dpuf
New Toyota “Active Lean” technology automatically balances the vehicle when cornering or travelling over stepped surfaces. 850mm width is no greater than a conventional two-wheeler, making i-ROAD as easy to manoeuvre as a scooter or motorcycle through urban traffic. - See more at: http://www.sinbadesign.com/transportation/toyotas-new-i-road-ev-concept/#sthash.lDAVU6xE.dpuf
Based on speed, gyroscope angle and amount steering input, the i-ROAD’s onboard computer calculates the exact amount of lean required to make a turn thanks to an actuator mounted on both sides of the front suspension. Turn into a left-hand bend and the right wheel pushes down while the left suspension compresses. Additionally, the system is tuned to compensate for rough road surfaces, supposedly making straight-line driving more comfortable in spite of the i-ROAD’s minuscule wheelbase.
Zero emissions, near-silent EV powertrain gives a range of up to 30 miles, with recharging from a conventional power supply taking just three hours.
- See more at: http://www.sinbadesign.com/transportation/toyotas-new-i-road-ev-concept/#sthash.lDAVU6xE.dpuf