Described as a “personal mobility vehicle,” the i-Road blends features of a city car and a motorcycle. Drivers are fully enclosed in a small cabin with room for one passenger and no need for helmets.
The three-wheel platform utilizes Active Lean technology to keep the tall body vertical on uneven surfaces and shift the center of gravity while rounding corners. It is powered by a lithium-ion battery pack with a range of approximately 30 miles, delivering power electric motors mounted to each front wheel.
Toyota promises that the production model features improved visibility and maneuverability compared to the concept build that was first unveiled at the Tokyo Motor Show last year.
The company hopes to gauge the effectiveness of the compact EV in everyday driving on urban streets. Members of the general public have been invited to join the test program, along with researchers and industry experts.
“Feedback will be collected concerning driving feel, user satisfaction, ease-of-use in urban areas, and impact on destination choices,” Toyota notes.
The program will run from March 24 until early June.
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