We have seen several versions of Toyota's i-REAL concept for personal mobility over the past few years, all of which were in the sitting position. Now, Toyota has unveiled their range of personal transport assistance robots, which operate, like the pioneering Segway Personal Transport (PT), in the standing position. Unfortunately, outside of commercial and government internal applications, the Segway PT has failed to capture consumer interest.

However, Toyota feels it has its place in society, particularly as a contributor of sustainability in research and development, manufacturing as well as social contributions to health and comfort of future society.

A unique parallel link mechanism allows the rider to go forward, backward and turn simply by shifting body weight, making the vehicle safe and useful even in tight spaces or crowded environments.

Toyota has created three models, the “L”, “M” and “S”, each having different handling features that allow consumers to select a model appropriate to their needs - from “practical” to “hands-free sporty”.

Toyota aims to have its Partner Robots in practical use in the early 2010s by furthering its robotic development and strengthening collaboration between industry, government and academia.