In the world of the motor industry, it is always surprising how innovations change the very essence of driving. Yamaha went a step further with the development of the MOTOROiD 2 concept, an electric motor that not only knows how to drive independently, but also maintains an ideal cornering angle and greets its rider. With technological developments dating back to 2017, the matter has reached a new level with the MOTOROiD 2 model, which will be presented for the first time at the Japan Mobility Show 2023 in Tokyo.
Yamaha is known for its constant pursuit of innovation in the motorcycling world. With the latest concept, known as MOTOROiD 2, Yamaha engineers have proven that they are ready to explore the limits of the traditional motorcycle experience. Although the idea of self-driving motorcycle perhaps somewhat antithetical to the basic charm of motorcycling, Yamaha is determined to invest its innovative spirit in this direction. It is mainly about safety and, in the future, driver corrections in dangerous situations.
It is an evolution of the original Motodroid concept that debuted in 2017. With active chassis elements and sophisticated algorithms, it allows the motorcycle to lift itself off the stand. These functionalities allow the engine to maintain an optimal cornering angle, allowing the rider to ride in the most passive sense of the word.
The motor, swing arm and rear wheel are mounted on actuators that are rotated to control the center of gravity, moving left or right to act as a counterweight. With the addition of a camera that uses facial recognition to identify the rider, Motoroid 2 not only recognizes its rider, but also greets them with an interesting visual display. This creates an interaction between man and machine that is almost emotional.
Yamaha is with MOTOROiD 2 managed to combine technological innovation with the basic motoring experience, allowing riders to experience something unique and different. The Motodroid 2 will make its debut at the Japan Mobility Show 2023 in Tokyo in November, and promises to be sure to attract the attention of motoring and technology enthusiasts.
MOTOROiD 2 is not only a step forward in motorcycle technology, but also a challenge to the traditional perception of motorcycle riding. With this project, Yamaha is opening the door to a future where interactions between driver and vehicle will reach new dimensions. The Motoroid concept is proof that there is still a lot of room for innovation in the motorcycling world and that the line between driver and motorcycle is increasingly blurred. The future of the motorcycling world is sure to be electric and full of surprises. Yamaha Motoroid is just the beginning of this exciting journey.
