UNI CUB by Honda

Comfortable, practical and ecological. These are three adjectives to describe Honda’s new UNI-CUB, a design object that can be integrated in every day life.
Looking for devices that allow people to live their lives in the best and easiest way led to the creation of UNI-CUB, a personal mobility device designed for use by individuals and within public spaces.

It is an evolution of the U3-X concept device announced by the Japanese company in 2009, with more features, a compact design and offers a higher level of freedom. In fact, thanks to the omni-directional driving wheel system, called Honda Omni Traction Drive System, the rider can freely move forward, backward, side-to-side and diagonally. UNI-CUB is also easily manoeuvrable among other people. This is due to the ease with which you can move around through the balance weight control. Moreover, with its compact saddle-style packaging it is easier for the rider’s legs to reach the ground and simultaneously maintain eye-level height with other pedestrians, thus promoting harmony and safety. Another convenient control option is the touch panel control that allows the rider to calculate the direction and speed intended by him/her via smartphone and other devices.

UNI-CUB has a total height of 74,5 cm, but has an adjustable saddle up to 82,5 cm. The power is provided by an electric motor powered by lithium-ion battery that allow the device to reach a top speed of 6 km/h, and having up to 6 km range.

The gimmick is not yet available on the market. In fact, from June 2012 to July 2013, Honda will mutually conduct various tests with Japan’s National Museum of Emerging Science and Innovation and their annual pass holders to further improve UNI-CUB.

It is designed for offices, homes, museums, airports and educational facilities. But who knows that it will not be developed for use on rough surfaces too. In fact, this version of a robotic unicycle could change the daily life of people like the elderly, pregnant women and people with disabilities.