August 1st, 2008
Toyota tinkers with baby Segways
Toyota on Friday announced that it is tinkering with a robot called the Winglet, which technically is “a personal transport assistance robot ridden in a standing position.” Translation: Toyota may be eyeballing Segway’s turf.
The automaker said in a statement that the Winglet is still being refined, but is designed to help people get around.
Toyota said the Winglet consists of a small body with an electric motor, two wheels and sensors that ensure stability. A rider can control the device by shifting body weight. There are also three models ranging from practical to sporty.
Here’s a look at the models that Toyota will be testing out in the fall at the Central Japan International Airport (Centrair) near Nagoya, and Laguna Gamagori, a seaside resort complex in Aichi Prefecture. Toyota will test the Winglet in shopping crowds in 2009.
Larry Dignan is Editor in Chief of ZDNet and Smart Planet as well as Editorial Director of ZDNet sister site TechRepublic. See his full profile and disclosure of his industry affiliations.
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