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Yamaha concepts on the 'go slow'
Yamaha's not all about two-wheeled performance, as its two latest mobility solutions show…"Slower, closer, connecting people with places and people with people" – it's hardly what we'd expect of Yamaha Motor Corporation, but it's at the heart of the ethos behind the creation of these two avant-garde, dare we say it slightly whacky mobility vehicles, the 05GEN and 06GEN.
Unveiled recently in Japan by Yamaha, the three-wheeled 05GEN and four-wheeled 06GEN represent the manufacturer's contribution to project designed to enhance the natural beauty of Omishima Island, which lies in the nation's west.
The island is home to the Toyo Ito Museum of Architecture, and Yamaha was one of many contributors who answered the call to "begin transforming the appeal of the island's natural beauty, culture and community".
To that end, Yamaha's proposal focussed upon news ways to move around the island.
The 05GEN is a three-wheeler with electric-assist pedal power. Able to lean into corners, the vehicle features a small storage compartment and a light canopy, and is said to "fit comfortably around you like clothing". The lightweight screen and canopy are said to protect the user like an umbrella, while being open to the sides and rear to "encourage new encounters".
Part golf cart and part party bus, Yamaha says the four-wheeled 06GEN is said to evoke the spirit of 'engawa', the traditional Japanese veranda that renders a space neither indoors nor outdoors. Yamaha says the vehicle adopts "a look and feel reminiscent of a living room", with U-shaped sofa-like seating that invites people to connect.
Both vehicles have their merits, but we can't help thinking each would be a whole lot more fun with an R1 engine shoehorned into the works (yes, there's a possibility we've missed the point…).
What do you think of Yamaha's latest concepts? Click here for more information, and check out the clip below to see people 'connecting' with the help of the 05GEN and 06GEN.
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Written byRod Chapman
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Please see our Editorial Guidelines & Code of Ethics (including for more information about sponsored content and paid events). The information published on this website is of a general nature only and doesn’t consider your particular circumstances or needs.
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