Honda unveils U3-X, a new personal mobility device

In advance of the Tokyo Motor Show on Oct. 24, 2009, Honda gives the media a preview of the U3-X prototype, a experimental mobility device on which a user can control speed and direction by shifting upper body weight. Read more at http://search.japantimes.co.jp/cgi-bin/nb20090925a1.html

Category:

Science & Technology

Tags:

• Japan
• technology
• transportation
• Honda
• mobility
• device

[Roq999]

I can just see people modifying the voltage and drag racing these.

[FrankzTerz]

Yes but will it blend?

[Mechalindsay]

i dont think their goal was to market this exact model, but to demonstrate its possibilities for something that COULD go mainstream, something more practical. You gotta consider that by presenting this invention they are probably getting tons of potential investors from the hype alone, anyone crazy enough to spend the money on it now is just a bonus.

[juki0h]

its unecessary, but looks fun as hell. if your rich, just buy it!

[GayBoyRunning]

The sad thing is this cant go up stairs :(

[MasterMark123]

interesting yet, whats the point ? they seem really really slow ....you can walk faster

[foxarasta]

@bleucheese14 your sitting on it xD

[khbikhib]

ohhhhhhhhhh what the.............

[stnweeks]

@gp500champion What about the people who did not have a choice about being obese, I know a few people who got overweight from bad disability s. why don't they fucking make something for them or the people who dont have legs to walk on cause of spinal problems or were just plain born without any legs.

[Zerapolis]

The target demographic is likely the elderly, not the obese (as with most robotic innovations from Japan). A large and increasing percentage of the Japanese population is over 65; they are experiencing negative growth.

U3-X is an elegant solution to improve elderly mobility and is significantly better than the alternatives (visit 'The Scooter Store' for comparisons).

[qixxxz]

how much does that guy charge to follow you around and catch you when you fall?