Yamaha has introduced a self-driving bike with no handlebars or other standard controls.
The Yamaha Motoride Two is the next version of the company’s Motoride concept bike, the first version of which was revealed in 2017, but unlike before, Yamaha has developed a working prototype of the new bike.
The self-balancing bike is equipped with gyroscopes and image recognition AI systems for upright and road navigation, while it can also operate autonomously without a rider.
The company says, ‘Motoride Two is a personal mobility bike that can recognize its owner, rise from its kickstand and walk with its rider.
‘When one rides it, (it) has a distinctly life-like feel and the presence of a lifelong companion.’
Yamaha plans to showcase a prototype of the Motoride Two at next month’s Japan Mobility Show 2023 in Tokyo.
Yamaha plans to showcase a prototype of the Motoride Two at next month’s Japan Mobility Show 2023 (Yamaha)
It is not clear whether Yamaha will release a production model of the bike or not, but its continued improvements suggest that the automotive company is working on incorporating at least some of its features into future bikes.
Self-driving technology is becoming increasingly common in production vehicles, although it is currently limited to four-wheel drive cars and trucks.
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Some have even considered steering-less, Tesla chief executive Elon Musk actually plans to build a fleet of self-driving electric taxis with no clear user controls.
The plan was reportedly shelved when company executives discovered that regulators in most major markets required steering wheels and pedals on the vehicles.
Several motorcycle manufacturers have introduced concept bikes that do not require a rider to operate.
BMW’s Connected Ride enables the company’s KR 1200GS Adventure (motorcycle) with automated technology to act as a ‘testbed for modern motorcycle safety’, which it hopes will make it to production. Models will be introduced.
“Connecting with the world of self-driving cars in the future will be an urgent need for all motorcycle sectors,” said BMW’s Marcus Schremme in 2020.
‘This will increase safety and ensure that the future of motorcycling is secured.’
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