Honda UNI-CUB β Press Release
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Transcript of Honda UNI-CUB β Press Release
Honda Announces New Personal Mobility Device, UNI-CUB β Enhancing Compatibility with People
TOKYO, Japan, November 14, 2013 - Honda Motor Co., Ltd. today unveiled the UNI-CUB β, the
new personal mobility device which was made usable for a wider range of people by enhancing the device's compatibility.
The UNI-CUB was first introduced in May 2012 as a new personal mobility device featuring
balance control technology and an omni-directional driving wheel system (Honda Omni Traction
Drive System) which originates from Honda's research into humanoid robots, represented by the
research and development of ASIMO. These technologies allow a UNI-CUB rider to move forward,
backward, side-to-side and diagonally simply by shifting body weight and leaning toward the
intended direction. Featuring a compact-sized body that is appropriate for maneuvering among
other people, the UNI-CUB offers personal mobility in indoor spaces such as offices and
commercial facilities.
Since June 2012, Honda has been testing and verifying the potential usefulness of the UNI-CUB
through a demonstration testing program conducted jointly with the National Museum of
Emerging Science and Innovation (Miraikan). The UNI-CUB has been used by Miraikan staffs for
their transportation within the facility and also by many Miraikan visitors in a wide range of ages for touring around the museum.
The UNI-CUB β was developed by analyzing and incorporating the data and the user feedback
through this testing program. With this model, Honda will make another step forward and verify
the business feasibility by offering the UNI-CUB β for a variety of uses by other businesses and organizations through a fee-based leasing program.
Key features of UNI-CUB β
Made smaller and lighter
Compared to the previous model, the seating position was lowered and the weight was
reduced, making the UNI-CUB β usable for a wider range of people.
Advancement of design and materials
Under the concept of “Harmony with People” and “Harmony with Space,” Honda proposed a
new design that enhances the sense of unity of the user and the device. In addition, softer
materials were adopted in order to make the seat more comfortable and to lessen the impact
when the device hits other people or objects.
Improvement of usability
The ease of getting on and off the device was improved through the addition of a stand
function.
In addition, the stand enables the device to be used as a stool when it is not in motion.
Honda will exhibit the UNI-CUB β at the 43rd Tokyo Motor Show 2013. Test riding is also scheduled.
Key specifications of UNI-CUB β
Size (L x W x H) 510 x 315 x 620 mm
Seat height 620 mm
Weight 25 kg
Battery type Lithium-ion battery
Maximum speed 6 km/h
Traveling range 6 km (approximately 1.5 hours at the speed of 4 km/h)
Application environment Barrier-free indoor environments