Toyota Shoots at Segway With Winglet

Gadgets | August 4th, 2008 by Staggs

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Toyota showed off its new “Winglet” prototype, shooting to be a different kind of Segway. The Winglet looks extremely compact and personal compared to the large-sized Segways. After taking control of Sony’s robotics division, the Winglet is one of the first products to come out by Toyota.

The Winglet, a small, unique version of a Segway, uses electric motors and sensors that monitor weight balance and the rider’s position on the gadget. The Winglet prototype is capable of achieving 3.7mph, which is a bit more than walking speed for most people. Unfortunately, the Segway has the Winglet beat in this specification – it is capable of 12.5mph; lightning fast in comparison.

In other specifications, the Winglet may win. Its small size and fold-up capability allow it to be placed in a big bag, and carried. At 22 pounds, most people probably don’t do this. It will probably be very much under the Segway’s current price of around $5,000+, and will also be easier to recharge. Recharging the Winglet will only take about 1 hour, as opposed to the Segway’s 8+ hours to recharge (depending on the model).

One last known fact, the Winglet will come in different sizes: short, medium, and tall. These seem to be aimed at people with different orientation. If they are novice, they will most likely go for the tall version, and more advanced riders going for the short. The first Toyota Winglets are expected to roll off of the production line in 2010.

Finally, we might be able to have something like the Segway, only not as expensive and more subtle. I like the idea from Toyota, however I really don’t see the need for these things. They are amazing, but honestly? Whats wrong with walking. It’s completely free.