Introducing the Toyota i-ROAD, an electric-powered, three-wheeled vehicle that can seat up to two passengers. It’s powered by two 2 kW (about 3 hp) motors that drive the front wheels, enabling a top speed of 28 mph, while a lithium-ion battery allows the driver to motor on for 30 miles and charge up on a standard power outlet in three hours. Continue reading for two videos and more information.
According to Wired: “Based on speed, gyroscope angle and amount steering input, the i-ROAD’s onboard computer calculates the exact amount of lean required to make a turn thanks to an actuator mounted on both sides of the front suspension. Turn into a left-hand bend and the right wheel pushes down while the left suspension compresses. Additionally, the system is tuned to compensate for rough road surfaces, supposedly making straight-line driving more comfortable in spite of the i-ROAD’s minuscule wheelbase.”
