No, Toyota is not yet ready to launch the i-Road personal mobility concept as a production vehicle and sell it to the public. But they are awfully close to that, as they launch a series of consumer trials in Tokyo; a program to study the i-Road in the real world, in the hands of real people.
In this program 10 Toyota i-Road prototypes will be provided to approximately 20 test participants, ranging from members of the general public to trend and industry experts. They will be using the vehicle on everyday basis, and give Toyota feedback on their experiences with it.
Toyota wants to know about the i-Road’s driving feel, user satisfaction, ease-of-use in urban areas, and impact on destination choices. This is the surest way to determine what consumers really want from such vehicles.
The i-Road to be used in the consumer trial in Tokyo is based on the model shown as a concept at the 43rd Tokyo Motor Show 2013, but is now available in five colors and features improved visibility, ease-of-use and maneuverability. The electric vehicle is pitched by Toyota as the ultimate personal mobility solution, and by the looks of things they are serious about launching it in the near future.