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Thei-unit is an ultra-compact single-seater four-wheeledToyotaconcept car. It debuted at theWorld Expo 2005, held inAichi Prefecture,Japan. The vehicle is a cross between amicrocar, a motorcycle, and a vehicularexoskeleton. The goal of Toyota is to provide apersonal mobility, which can be used on roads but also does not hinder interaction withpedestrians. For this the i-unit has two possible setups. First, there is an uprightlow speed setup, where the rider has a higher position and can haveconversations face-to-face with pedestrians and can move among people. This upright position can be transformed while driving to a low position, where the rider sits much lower and more reclined. Thishigh speed setup has a much lowercenter of gravity and is for driving at higher speeds.
The i-unit weighs 180 kilograms (400 lb). It contains alithium-ion battery and features Intelligent Transport System technology. The rear wheels are powered by electric motors, and the device is steered with the front wheels. In the upright position it has a turning radius of 0.9 metres (35.4 in), which means it can turn on the spot. The vehicle is controlled by twojoystick-like devices at the front of the armrests, and uses aDrive-by-wire technology. An Intelligent Transport System (ITS) technology aims to reduce the likelihood ofaccidents.
The color of the lights can change according to the preferences or emotions of the operator. The shape was designed to symbolize aleaf, and the design incorporates environmentally friendly materials such askenaf.
This concept vehicle is used by Toyota forpublic relations, and they state thatThe "i-unit" is a form of "personal mobility" that seeks to attain a greater balance of meeting individuals' wishes to enjoy freedom of movement, harmony with society, and harmony with the Earth's natural environment. They also refer to these vehicles aswearable personal mobility vehicles. A representative at theIAA 2005 inFrankfurt stated that Toyota may plan to offer these type of vehicles for sale, but did not provide a date when the vehicle will be available. Currently the vehicle lacks features such as a storage compartment (i.e.Trunk orglove compartment), and the protection against bad weather is inadequate.
Twelve i-units together with twoToyota i-foots (two legged walking seats for one passenger, maximum capacity 60 kg) performed at the Toyota Pavilion at the 2005 World Expo in Aichi.
| Dimension | Low speed | High speed |
|---|---|---|
| Length | 1.100 metres (43.3 in) | 1.800 metres (70.9 in) |
| Height | 1.800 metres (70.9 in) | 1.250 metres (49.2 in) |
| Width | 1.040 metres (40.9 in) | 0.540 metres (21.3 in) |
| Wheelbase | 0.540 metres (21.3 in) | 1.300 metres (51.2 in) |
The i-unit has been superseded by thei-swing, a three-wheeler that leans in curves. One of the i-units produced is on display in the London Science Museum, where its bio-plastic panels are featured.[1]
