robots in disguise!

Toyota Motor Corp., the world’s largest automaker, recently unveiled the i-Real at the 2007 Toyota Auto show. It is a new conceptual personal mobility vehicle.

But… what made it considered as the real transformer? Well, the new vehicle could actually change its shape easily, to fit its speed of movement.

Toyota developed the i-Real to demonstrate the company’s concept for future transportation in crowded environments. The vehicle is a three wheeler that could operate in two different speeds. Each of the speed has its own advantages. The low-speed mode suits for movement in a pedestrian environment, considering that the passenger is positioned at eye-level height while the vehicle is still small enough not to disrupt everyday life. The high-speed mode, on the other hand, allows the vehicle to automatically adjust itself to the quick movement, lowering its center of gravity through lengthening the wheelbase.

The i-Real is comprised with a safety mechanism that works to protect both the driver and those passing by. It recognizes possible collision; then, flashes lights and emits sounds to warn the pedestrians, while producing noises and vibrations that alert the driver of the impending collision.

According to an article in tfot.info, “The new i-Real is another innovation in a long and rather bizarre-looking line of concept vehicle from Toyota.” The new vehicle’s predecessors included the 2003 Toyota PM concept, and the i-unit, i-swing and i-foot, which were covered by TFOT in 2006.

Toyota intended to make all its concept vehicles provide easy and natural maneuverability in urban areas. And, that makes the company’s effort even more impressive. But, I don’t think I would be able to afford such wonderful high-technology vehicles, unlike the Volvo spark plug wires that I could easily purchase online.