Wednesday, April 7, 2010

Example 4: Toyota I-Swing


The successor to Toyota's I-Swing, the I-Real was showcased in 2007 as a social media enabled, urban, personal transportation vehicle; features include parameter/collision sensors, light, sound and vibration announcements, and two modes of transport (pedestrian and road-going). As a three wheeler, the single rear wheel extends and contracts allowing faster or slower speeds, and greater or less stability respectively.

Pros
  • Familiar "driving" position
  • Two modes allow for greater flexibility; road for increased speed, pedestrian for smaller footprint and higher seating position (eye-level)
  • Communicates directly with other I-Reals in the vicinity - encourages community use
  • Hands-free/ single-hand control
  • Electric
Cons
  • Similarities and connotations with wheel chairs
  • Impacted by weather conditions
  • Presumed expense and longevity for a technology heavy product (over-engineered?)
  • Relatively large and bulky foot-print

No comments:

Post a Comment

Recent Reviews