The ultra-compact three-wheelers will available via Park24, a local company that already provides car-sharing services with traditional vehicles. Customers will be able to use the i-Road any time, day or night.
The company will require interested drives to make online reservations and complete a compulsory i-Road training course before driving the unique vehicle, with usage rates set at 412 yen (~$3.50 USD) per 15-minute increment.
The i-Road aims to combine the benefits of driving a motorcycle with the advantages of riding in a car. It measures less than three feet wide, with a completely enclosed cabin for two occupants. A pair of 2kW motors provide the power, getting up to 37 mph with a range of approximately 30 miles.
Toyota already confirmed plans to begin limited production and begin trials on public roads, but the company has been slow to move toward commercial availability. The car-sharing program will put the vehicle into the hands of average drivers, allowing the company to continue gathering feedback and gauging receptiveness to the unconventional transportation method.
Leave a Reply