Experience Omnidirectional Floating with Honda’s XR Demo

Honda is repurposing its sit-down Segway designed for leisurely shopping, known as the Uni-One, by integrating it with VR goggles to create “a unique extended reality experience that combines the excitement of mobility with virtual reality adventures.”

Honda has been exploring uniwheel electric mobility solutions since 2009, with previous iterations like the Uni-Cub ß presented at the 2013 Tokyo Motor Show. The latest version of this seated mobility device, reminiscent of WALL-E, launched last year as a rental option in Japan, with global release plans in the works.

US Debut at SXSW with Honda XR Mobility Experience

However, it is set to premiere in the United States at SXSW in Austin, Texas, from March 10 as an element of the Honda XR Mobility Experience. In fact “through the fusion of the distinctive physical sensation of riding the Honda Uni-One with deeply immersive digital entertainment, Honda is forging a completely novel multimodal encounter that advances extended reality technologies,” stated Hirokazu, a representative of the company.

In fact, the self-stabilizing electric Uni-One features an upgraded version of the Uni-Cub ß’s Omni Traction Drive System, incorporating two wheels that allow movement in all directions. The rider controls direction and speed adjustments by shifting their weight or using a joystick. The seat is adjustable, capable of raising the rider up to 27.6 inches (70 cm) to match the eye level of a standing companion or lowering to 21.7 inches (55 cm) for improved communication with seated individuals or children.

AR and VR Integration in Honda Uni-One Testing at Suzuka Circuit Park

During testing of demo models at Suzuka Circuit Park in Japan last year, Honda incorporated AR technology to enhance the experience. At SXSW, attendees will have the opportunity to wear a VR headset and immerse themselves in a digital adventure. They can enjoy sensations like floating in the sky or gliding along a half-pipe path. As participants navigate through the XR experience, the Uni-One will respond to their movements by adjusting based on shifts in their body weight.

The hoverchair boasts a maximum speed of 3.7 mph (6 km/h) and can travel up to 5 miles (8 km) on a single charge while cruising at 2.5 mph. It can support individuals weighing up to 242 lb (109 kg).

To conclude, Honda envisions the XR Mobility Experience occurring in obstacle-free indoor and outdoor spaces like theme parks, entertainment centers, and malls. Although they haven’t provided a specific timeline, you can preview the experience before SXSW by watching the video below.

Read the original article on: New atlas

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