I Tried Japan's TINIEST AI Taxi...

[@TokyoLens]

Would YOU ride around Tokyo on this Tiny Taxi? Let me know!! **LAST WEEK FOUND AN ABANDONED CULT HIDEOUT!!** kzbin.info/www/bejne/a33beZqqbqqbfqs

[@MrTechblackdog]

When I was a teen [80's], This would have been Great for the times. I was trying to get to know my Dad* better! My dad was a 2 pack a day smoker. Dad walking was capped about 2 blocks. It was more about the time then 'getting from to point to point'. That would have been a great speed for Dad to look around and talk with me. *at the time Dad was over 55.

[@d0lph1n63]

No, I have limited mobility with arthritis in the ankles and there’s no where to sit when my feet begin to throb.

[@allenwc]

yes, I would absolutely use this service, a lot!

[@christyhoffmann6179]

No way. So slow too.

[@Angultra]

I like the rental kickscooters but if I just wanted to zone out or had mobility issues it'd be great.

[@CarlosBenjamin]

If this were available in large botanical gardens, zoos, or other attractions where you basically interact along a path, I’d definitely give it a try. They could include a speaker and narrate the tour.

[@ShellyS2060]

@CarlosBenjamin I would totally invest!

[@samuellopez-je9nw]

Great ideas

[@andyspoo2]

Definitely a great idea.

[@sapitron]

you know there is a default motor function in the human body denominated "WALKING" ?

[@need2bereading]

​@@sapitron some people tire easily so this would help them stay included on such excursions. Also one great way to keep kids of a wandering age together is to give them something nifty to ride on.

[@harryjones5260]

the wood finish is absolutely superb. really great concept, just hop on and off.

[@Skateandcreate9]

Sike, looks dumb af. Needs a chair.

[@drdre137]

It just looks like a stack of laser cut wood glued together.

[@damonhtoo]

The design is actually genius. Lets you fit three people on it, no sharp corners for things to catch on, and it doesn't obstruct the lidar sensors on both the front and the back. I can't imagine a better design.

[@oravavaara]

I just spent a week in London with a leg injury... I would totally use these! Disability, at varying levels, both temporary and permanent, is all around us. Many people who are not wheelchair bound have difficulties walking!!!

[@TokyoLens]

would be great if it had a bit of a seat~

[@goldenghostinc]

​​@@TokyoLens a little saddle-like would be nice, but not really needed. Most people who have difficulty walking have no problem with standing. It's the actual placement of the foot or leg on the ground that is the problem, not standing still. If you stand still your knee can lock, and any pressure is distributed so you hardly notice any discomfort. The pain and problems come mainly when shifting that pressure and lifting the leg / foot for the next step.

[@edtuckerartist]

@@TokyoLens Yep a seat for the elderly and less mobile - passengers.

[@mistymoon883]

@@goldenghostinc I wouldn’t say “most” people because your explanation is specific to only one type of mobility issue involving the foot. People with knee or hip problems could also have discomfort standing just as much as with walking. Lucky me has ankle, knee and hip issues which makes walking too much incredibly uncomfortable (and increases the risk of injury) but standing is far more painful! When walking, no one joint is carrying the weight for very long and there isn’t as much pressure right where I have the chronic pain. I can take a leisurely walk for 10-15 minutes without much discomfort on a good day but if I had to stand in a lineup for that long it would definitely do me in! I tried using my husband’s e-scooter once and only once, the pain of standing on it with my knees slightly bent for balance was too much 😢 I have a mobility scooter now for family bike/scooter rides but get looks using it, I look much too young and can walk without limping so people are rude about it.

[@Bigrignohio]

Lower back issues here. Would LOVE this.

[@masamiju]

I tried this last month in the town I live in! The people in my town and I absolutely loved it. How it was described to us reminded me of your livestreams, where something catches your eye and you abandon the route you were on to search an alleyway or nature path. The idea with iino was that we can see things from a different pov than from a drivers seat or train, and theres no barrier to pausing your trajectory for a sidequest you may want to take. That being said, I think this would be greater in smaller cities and towns than Tokyo.

[@neutronenstern.]

but its not faster than walking. So do you just use it as relaxing navigation device? I feel like standing is less relaxing than walking.

[@jonathanmillner]

@@neutronenstern. That same machine, with a little bit more all-terrain type wheels, moving about 4 times faster, with seats, seatbelts and maybe a few more spots, would make an incredible taxi, in almost any urban setting, and yet, doesn't really interfere with automobiles, because it wouldn't be traveling on roads much at all. You could probably put a solar roof on it too, and never have to plug these in, or worry about range.

[@neutronenstern.]

@@jonathanmillner hmm. If it moves 4times as fast on the sidewalk,it will disturb pedestrians.

[@jonathanmillner]

@@neutronenstern. This looked to me like it was probably going between 1.5-6km/hr roughly. If it generally travelled 6-24km/hr, it's going between fast walk speed and biking speed. In heavier traffic areas, it probably wouldn't be super disturbing, yet, if used on bike paths, it could travel distance at a speed more like what you'd expect out of a cyclist. Where I live, there is a bike path that runs into the major metro area. You can get to much of the city simply through bike paths. The morning commute for many in my area is a daily hell, like many places. Taking a bike path with a vehicle that's just kind of cruising along at 24km/hr, and bypassing the traffic jam, probably isn't much slower than driving. Another thing it does away with is the physical activity of driving. I don't really care if my commute takes 10 minutes longer if it's not me, physically driving for 10 more minutes.

[@shaunaitcheson]

This could be great for people with moderate mobility issues that make it difficult for them to walk shortish distances. I like it.

[@TokyoLens]

really could! Especially if they add a bit of a seat~

[@AranelEruvyreth]

As someone with bad knees who keeps a skateboard in their car for this very reason, I concur. Something like this would be really cool to see in cities and towns.

[@takanara7]

You could easily just use a segway or something.

[@AurinneA]

​@takanara7 If cities had self-driving segways so we can relax and don't have to steer or anything (I have shoulder and upper back issues, for instance), that could be really fun too!

[@AnnaKulieshova]

@@takanara7 segways and similar items look much more scary... I would feel more secure and safe using this ai taxi

[@strollingthroughparadise353]

I would definitely use it as a tourist. I live in the US and riding around the streets of Tokyo on this slow and beautiful invention would be an amazing way to look around and not get so tired out for seeing as much as possible every day. Thank you for sharing this creative making !!!

[@lallison2825]

So when I first looked at it, it looked like a weird gimmick. Which I guess it is. But honesty, I'd love to see more of these than the various self driving cars. The CEO is right, cars are cars, they're fast moving, glassed in boxes and you never really look at where you're going- their goal is to only get you to your destination. I love the concept that this is to assist people on their journey, and allows people to take in the things around them. I am happy someone is pursuing their dreams Some of you need to look up the definition of gimmick- it has nothing to do with practicality or if it's useful. This is meant to attract attention and publicity, the CEO said so himself. It's a gimmick.

[@ShinmegamiPersona]

It would help someone with mobility issues so I don’t see it as a gimmick if it actually helps someone

[@jacky96923]

I would say they just want to make full self-driving training data and sell it to big car firms lol.

[@Flight042]

I mean it has promise as a public transit type of device in places without space to expand dedicated public transport.

[@cwg73160]

Gimmicks aren’t practical. This is practical. It’s not a gimmick. You contradicted yourself.

[@lallison2825]

@@cwg73160 A gimmick is merely something that is designed to attract attention or publicity. So no, I didn't contradict myself.

[@xXCrimsonWolfXx752]

Can absolutely see this being used for accessibility reasons for short trips, but also on things like convention and showroom floors -- confined but large spaces. And like the creator said, if these were set up to move in pre-defined routes to go around parts of the city for people to still explore and just observe what's around them, would be great for that too. Plus, I know I would have loved to be on one of these things when I was a kid, kinda like being in a shopping cart we all loved to play on.

[@SpicyChimkinSammie]

Outside of Japan, a gizmo like this is probably going to be completely vandalized on the first day of deployment. But I can see this being a cool little novelty in more a more controlled environment, like an amusement park or airport terminal or maybe a university campus.

[@baatar]

Isn’t it demoralizing to live in such a society?

[@BornIn1500]

@@baatar It's completely demoralizing to see violent riots from groups like BLM and antifa in your major cities. Mini taxis like this would be the first things destroyed by them.

[@origamisteve]

​@BornIn1500 You say that yet MAGA cultists were the domestic terr0rists that tried a coup on January 6th. 🙄

[@vorg_]

@@BornIn1500 stfu. It's the MAGAts and other conservative zombies that would vandalize these things. No one will ever take you seriously if you keep crying about BLM. And Antifa won WW2, you disphit- so keep sucking that nazi microcock. Lmao FA&FO will haunt you confederates.

[@sfkdsxzjkcfjldskaf99sddf809sdf]

@@BornIn1500 "antifa" is short for anti-fascism and is a concept, not an organized group of people. Wake up

[@AlDarweesh]

One of the reasons why I dislike taking trains or taxis in a country I visit is because I don't get to see the stuff around me (the area, the shops, cafés etc...). So I understand his thought process when he says it helps people slow down and look around to enjoy the place they're in. As someone who actively avoids modes of transportation that limit my ability to see or enjoy the places around me, I completely relate. It's why I prefer using a bicycle whenever I can because there are so many things we miss in a train/taxi/bus.

[@Justanobody875]

I’d absolutely use it. I have joint problems and walking a lot is an issue for me, so being able to get around slowly and still be able to enjoy the scenery would be amazing!

[@gildasgautier8323]

I must admit, i love the idea !! I like the fact that it's slow, and let you watch the trees and the sky☺️..well, only if you're not in a hurry for something ..

[@With_Me_JAPAN]

People don’t really see their familiar area and many of them just walk and check their smartphones so it really makes sense that people notice new shops and restaurants and get chances to mingle with new people thanks to the tiny taxi! I would love to try it😆✨

[@TokyoLens]

its true! Even around my own studio, I am sure there are many things I haven't noticed we all just need to slow down sometimes!

[@googleevil]

exactly, this is ideal thing to be bound with your smartphone even more. you just holding iPhone with one hand and with another to this new taxi :)

[@thsudy]

This is why I like public transport. I can just look around

[@epicthief]

I love to walk just for the reason, as an American cars dominate our society

[@CanadaFree-ce9jn]

No, young people will still use their cell phones on these things because you don't have to pay as much attention (as shown in this video) as scooters and electric bikes.

[@nawwk79]

The best part about this invention is that strangers can just hop on and start chatting, because Japan is a very shy country most strangers won't chat with one another.

[@StephGee888]

I like it! It’s like moving art. I think the crazy fast scooters and bikes that people ride can cause great injury due to misuse. A tiny controlled taxi could help people get to their destination is a more controlled pace that could offer people a scenic view rather than looking down at their phone (like another post said). I’m thinking about how nice this could be for seniors (that can input their destination without difficulty) or tourists! Overall, I would definitely try it when I come to Tokyo! I hope it does well! Encourage creativity!

[@charlesblithfield6182]

I think the industrial design on that vehicle is amazing. Despite all the tech inside it has an organic flowing feel that’s approachable. The layered wood and curves evoke nature. They have truly maximized use of space as well - three persons access - wow!

[@driftliketokyo34ftw35]

Also the way the tech is incorporated is just beautiful. The LiDAR sensors are so well hidden in plain sight I would have never guessed it had them had it not been pointed out to me.

[@LazyIRanch]

I love that it is made of bamboo, a fast-growing sustainable "wood" that has less environmental impact. It has beautiful form! I would use it.

[@ChiChisStreams]

Uuu love the concept and if there was a seat it would be super useful for maybe elderly people who just want to simply go from a to b without taking an actual taxi. I don't think I would use it, but love the idea and the passion behind it ❤

[@Sunila_DragonladyCH]

Well I don't think I could stand on this for very long, let alone in 10-20 years when I will count as elderly, but if you're still fit, why not :)

[@wxlurker]

I think it would be useful in an elderly residential area if it could have seats, like helping them travel short distances to the supermarket or bus stop.

[@Smoses_senpai]

If it had seats i might use it if i'm not in a rush.

[@Tullece]

Yes, maybe foldable seats so people have the option of sitting or standing

[@johnsonfromml8662]

Having no seat is such a huge downgrade as walking is more comfortable than standing still in the small platform. Maybe have something to slouch on.

[@Jeans16]

I actually love the concept! Firstly for the reason why he created them. Secondly, from a personal point of view I am 'in between' disabled - well enough to walk on my own, but distance is difficult for me. The further I walk and more I increase my pain/exhaustion doing so, the less I get to actually see where I am going. That also means I start to make mistakes that could cause me harm, eg. missing that I should stop at a small crossing for a car coming. All these things, this idea sorts. Clever!

[@callasky]

I visited Japan twice as a tourist, though the bus and train system is great, most of the sightseeing done are by walk. Approximately I walk for 4-5 hours a day in Japan. This device will help these type of tourists. This definitely interest me, especially after I injure my knees awhile back. And it would be also great if they can provide a QR code so that the tourist passanger can hear some kind of recorded tour guides about the history and culture while touring around.

[@EGRJ]

Nice idea, but QR codes are a bit of a security risk. Anyone could just slap a sticker on, and redirect you to a malware site. I guess they could include a little embedded screen for the QR, but that adds a little more complexity. Then again, it would be a lot less complex than the whole thing.

[@callasky]

@EGRJ Ah, you're right..

[@drednorzt]

@@EGRJ I don't think hijacking QR codes is a problem in Japan (or the rest of Asia for that matter). They are used literally everywhere for all sorts of purposes like Payments, or connecting to WiFi networks etc. For the rest of us uncivilized barbarian nations though, your are definitely right though lol

[@MageThief]

I love to walk; I can walk for hours, but this one intrigues me. I could see myself using it with a friend or two. That way, we could focus on talking while at the same time getting somewhere.

[@chrislessard975]

Seems like it is really good for people who have already walked 40,000 steps or for people with issue walking. It is a very neat invention

[@TokyoLens]

hahaha fair enough~

[@minmo2288]

I got the bus home today for that exact reason, got tired on my daily 6 mile walk 😂 would love something like this.

[@chrislessard975]

@minmo2288 as Norm said, they are trying something new. There might be potential to help people that have mobility issues or it could be used as a day rental to help you explore Tokyo (for example) as it seems to be on the small side and able to go inside and outside. It may fail, but it is better to try then never try. But yes, if you are not use to walking long distances, your feet will tell you

[@llminx2194]

Yes! A preprogrammed tour around the city or a small area would be perfect! Or something like a mini hop on hop off bus for popular spots in the area

[@barkustyler6569]

90% of tourists will love it as they aren't' accustomed to the long walks Japanese people endure, also tourists are there to see everything not just focusing on getting from A->B and this also takes the stress and distraction of avoiding people.... one less thing to think about can mean you can focus on more. I love it!!! Bravo

[@ad.6472]

Long walks? You must be joking! Most Japanese live very close to everything unless you live in the countryside. Try renting a property more than 15 mins walk in Japan. You will get very few views!

[@barkustyler6569]

@ad.6472 I can't confirm or deny that... but it sounds sus. So much transite, I imagine it's partially true. Do you live in Japan? Or just a self proclaimed expert?

[@barkustyler6569]

Maybe not long walks, but they walk almost 50% more then the average person in the states not including standing, inclines and stairs.

[@somdudewillson]

@@ad.6472 Maybe not long _distance-wise,_ but the total length of _time_ spent walking from place to place is much higher. In more spread out places that are vahicle-reliant, one generally only walks a few minutes at most to and from a car.

[@CrannyNoko]

Suddenly at 6:18 this idea makes so much more sense! Like I can actually see this having some real use in cities. That is, if it were just a bit bigger and you could rest some of your carrying items in a space. The little "turrent trucks" could move along a set path, akin to a trolley and stepping off is a relatively simple process. Fun idea...!

[@OgreBanani]

This could definitely be a good mobility aid or even just a nice chill way to make your way around a district as a tourist. My wife is a sometimes user of wheelchairs when it comes to walking long distances over time she definitely can't and always resorts to a chair. But having something like this where you might get to relax from the motion of walking, even if it's just to stand for a little, would help further incursions on foot! Great little video, thank you!

[@tuzden]

I like the idea of looking at the scenery and focusing on whats around you. Compared to walking when you're often more focused on what's right in front of you as to not trip, fall, or walk into anything

[@telldo8016]

Still, it wouldn't be wise to trust hardware and software too much, always keep an eye to your surroundings or you may get hurt if anything goes wrong.

[@SamuelThompsonDranoel]

Exactly since you're not walking you could look around more

[@travelling_here_and_there]

TLDR: This kind of taxi would be great for shuttling people from the station to their hotel; helping seniors, and people with mobility issues; actually sightseeing spots where there’s long stretches of walking (eg Disneyland Sea, Aeon Mall, underground mall) ! I would suggest just adding fold down seats and a place to put some small luggage or bags. ****** Thanks for another great video. At first glance, I was skeptical of the use case for this device. But after watching the video, twice, I would absolutely use it on my next visit to Japan if it was available. Why? As a tourist, I recall the amount of walking I had to do around Japan, anywhere from 5 hours up to 12 hours a day, everyday, over a span of several week. Even as someone who does up to 12-14km forest hikes, at the end of a long sightseeing day, I could see myself hoping on it to get back to the hotel from the train station. At 5km/h, it would actually be a tad faster than just walking. Even getting to the hotel initially can be a jaunt, especially when you’re arriving the first day, travelling to a new city or switching hotels. Many hotels (at least the one’s I booked) can one to two kilometers away from the station (15-30min walk). Add to the fact, I don’t necessarily know exactly where I’m going (since street address don't really exist in Japan). The mobility route/escalator/elevator may be the opposite direction that you’re hotel is located. Also I’m carrying luggage (30lb backpack on first trip), dragging my pregnant wife’s luggage (on the second trip), dragging my wife and daughter’s luggage (on the third trip) and dragging my wife’s, daughter’s and 86-year-old dad’s luggage (on our last trip). And that’s me still using Black Cat to send the heavy luggage to the hotel. The walk to the hotel isn’t the most fun. My 86-year-old dad on the last trip was a trooper and he walked most of Japan with us, but after over a week of walking, I could see that he was tiring out more quickly. We started to take more taxi’s to or back from sightseeing as the repetitive walk from/to the station was becoming exhausting. Also, I twisted my knee snowboarding in Shiga Kogen, so it made my last week in Japan more interesting. Anyway, I hope to see them around on my next trip to Japan! Thanks for reading to the end.

[@SchuldigXII]

This is such a good idea for disabled, visually impaired, and elderly. Where they can get around safely. It's a good idea, I can see it being very helpful if done right!

[@BK-gh9us]

I suppose you're right. It is a gimmick for the general population, but... I have elderly parents, and my mom likes to go to new places but is very limited mobility wise. For older folks, this could help them get from Point A to Point B and beyond.

[@katelinnett9020]

As a senior with bad knees, I would TOTALLY make use of this...especially if it had a seat!

[@krysin]

@@katelinnett9020 Yeh i imagine a version with two seats back to back would be great

[@rachelcookie321]

I don’t really see how it would be useful for disabled people when it’s constantly moving as you try to get on, and you still have to stand while on it. I feel like it’s going too fast for anyone to get on who isn’t fully able.

[@TheCatMurgatroyd]

@@krysin maybe seats you can flip out? might be bad for overweight people, depending on the hinges, but at least it would save space and still work for people who can't stand long because of other issues 🤔

[@final_catalyst]

As something to encourage local shopping and travel in an area it could actually be really useful. The key thing I think that would get people to be more in the moment is the lack of seat and slow speed. If you can't sit and you are holding on at slow speed your not easily using your phone, and if your not actively walking or moving fast you will end up looking around and actively observe your surroundings.

[@cpt.doomwolf3794]

Having been in Japan recently for two weeks I could see this having a huge market with tourist. after walking around for 6 hours a day or getting someplace by taxi but can't get a taxi back for a while one of these would be amazing to get back to the hotel or the subway lines.

[@MrAtrophy]

am I the only one impressed by the blind sidewalk paths and markers ? that is cool.

[@markylon]

Aren't they normal in most cities?

[@rossstewart9475]

@@markylon Normal in much of Europe and Asia; I might assume they're less common in North America?

[@markylon]

@@rossstewart9475 I'm not from USA, but they're everywhere in Europe and Asia and most other civilised countries.

[@alexanderrahl482]

​@@markylonWe don't need your European civilities. Prepare yourselves against Russia. The US free ride is over.

[@lollipop_uncertainty]

7:05 What a poetic interpretation. I love the idea.

[@TokyoLens]

(^-^)

[@nlald]

It’s kind of an automated pedestrian bus! It would be interesting to set up a network of these on intersecting routes on 1 minute intervals. It would probably increase walkability throughout the whole network. Congratulations to the whole design team! You’ve made a really interesting vehicle and I love the “Eyes of the Skin”-type aesthetic motivation behind the design inspiration.

[@joshuamstark]

Such a cool concept! I wish him luck.

[@TokyoLens]

im right there with you on it!

[@devarajanp]

For someone like me, with post polio paralysis who can stand with braces & crutches, and walk only short distances, such AI powered mobility solutions are awesome! Great work!!!

[@JEndless2025]

It seems like a good solution for areas where you need to move people a relatively short distance a lot. Like bar hopping within a specific neighborhood. "The Last Mile Problem."

[@AurinneA]

This is great for all those times when I say "I just wish there was one of those airport travelators right here so I don't have to move my tired body anymore." 😄👍

[@TokyoLens]

lol a personal travelator for the street!

[@daisyrosario3438]

Simply fantastic! Thanks Norm!❤

[@shayneelizabeth358]

I love the idea of that little slow taxi am I think it is genius, and would do exactly what the creator says. You would see more of your surroundings, you would pay attention to the sounds, to the sky, you would talk to the person that was on it with you more. Because there’s no place to sit and you’ll hold a handrail you wouldn’t be on your phone. I think it’s so creative and I think it would be a wonderful future for them to be everywhere letting people glide across the pavement while talking to each other, and really viewing the area there in.

[@ThetaWindfall]

Hmm, certainly interesting. I liked the CEOs passion behind it when he actually opened up as to why they made it. I like it from the idea that you can see more of what you are going past when you dont have to worry about running into people or walking off the road etc. it feels like a very touristy invention in some ways.

[@vicsar]

When the video started, and I saw them both relaxed and talking, I understood the concept. Even before the interviewer asked "why," I liked the idea.

[@jonikalus]

Perfect for old people. Bringing friends together for a unique experience. Or even a way to get people around the office. Just the thought about encouragement to get your colleagues together after a break, being able to talk about work or whatever you want without having to stop and look around so you don't stumble, just sounds like an amazing feeling that you thought you didn't need. The only safety issues i can see is going under a tree and making you hit your head in something. And yes after a long day of hard work a walk in the park could sound nice but if you are tired you probably do not want to walk anymore, even tho you have the feeling that you want to just look around and get some fresh air. This is perfect in so many ways!

[@Thagrynor]

I could see a use in specific places, say in an amusement part or something, with special lanes for them to get around, or within larger facilities (like big warehouses or factories). Maybe even in parks or something. But I also struggle to see a use case for major urban areas with densely packed populations, especially as it seemed a fair amount of people were walking faster than the thing moved.

[@TokyoLens]

all of those make sense~

[@idha39]

I like that you tucked in a small section on japanese law on mobility, and when you menctioned the fact that they try to give law enforcement the most power, it highlights how in Japan, such an organized and systematic police force, with more power than usual, can be trusted not to abuse their power as individuals, it goes to show the importance of trust in institutions even in a government so closed and powerfull.

[@pamelagordon869]

Looks fun norm ❤

[@TokyoLens]

definitely was!

[@andr01dm]

I think these would be a great addition to an art gallery or museum. Being able to rest from walking miles of corridors, while still making progress to the next thing you're interested in - sounds like an ideal fit to me. It even looks like art. :)

[@KING_PHILLIP]

His personal reasons for the taxi are exactly my reasons for riding a onewheel. It is simply the very best way to explore an area and take in the scenery. EUC are great too- but I just feel cooler on the onewheel 🤗

[@thedopplereffect00]

Sounds like one wheel is illegal in Japan

[@KING_PHILLIP]

@@thedopplereffect00 yeah they kinda fall into a “grey area” most places, but like Norm said, the cops in Japan are given great power over their streets. You probably wouldn’t get far exploring Tokyo with a onewheel/EUC but I’m sure you could get plenty of use father away from the big cities. 😗👍

[@markylon]

I saw a guy on a onewheel the other day he had his hands in his pockets, his wheel caught a flaw in the road and he fell and landed and smashed his face in entirely, has had to have 8 surgeries so far to reconstruct his face. Had he NOT had his hands in his pocket, he would have NOT landed on his face.

[@stellar783]

I can see the touristic value of these - it's more minimal than a tour bus, can reach a lot more areas in a city, it'd be more personalised, individual and accessible than a tour guide. Seems like a great and peaceful way to take in th sights

[@geralt7144]

Looks like a bar on wheels. Just without booze

[@TokyoLens]

lol so were half way there! I can just see people falling off sooooo easily hahaha

[@geralt7144]

@TokyoLens UBER Booze

[@waldevv]

reminds me of those bicycles you see in places like Latvia that is basically a bar on wheels and it has like 16 sets of seats and pedals for people to move it around

[@twestgard2]

Give it a minute 😂

[@g5rearea]

@@waldevv They do that in Nashville, Tennessee. Really popular with bachelorette parties.

[@retsubrooklyn]

Imma keep an eye out for these next time we take a family trip to Japan. I appreciated the tact you took in reframing the origin question to the CEO/“Leader” to get to the heart of the inspiration in a more relatable, emotional form. Further, after 4 decades, I learned why my Japanese teen cousins’ skateboarding around their community at night was such a rebellious act-which being from the US, I had never fully appreciated!

[@prodbyRafa7]

5:30 I feel the CEO’s answer is perfectly reasonable. I drive around town and the rare times when I’m passenger, I’m shocked to see buildings and other curiosities I had never noticed because I’m paying attention to the road at all times driving

[@apathetk]

Seems like these would be really nice for tourists or tour groups. It's like a taxi in that it gets you from point a to point b in an unfamiliar area, but in a way that allows you to appreciate your surroundings more. In a tour group setting, with a couple of these in a small fleet, it's like a bus, but without the hassle of the constant boarding/unboarding.

[@KirstenReusch]

Interesting concept, though I also question its usefulness when I can walk somewhere faster. I can appreciate the thought behind it. Pause to check out your surroundings when you don't/wouldn't otherwise normally. It's kind of like using the moving walkways/escalators. My feet hurt, or I don't want to walk for a bit, so it's convenient. I would use it out of curiosity. And touching on the floating/ boat cars for tsunami, also an intriguing concept, but how do you really test something that would need to stand up to water moving hundreds of mph? Most terrifying ride ever if you survived. Anywho, have an awesome week, Norm 💜✌️🐦

[@lokelosk]

The biggest use I can see for this is "behind the scenes", where the technology to make it work can be implemented on other stuff, autonomous or not, to make it safer to drive around. The object itself might have more uses than the ones you've shown but, even if it fails to be adopted, the tech and expertise will definitely live on in other things. Now, to be honest, I would love to sometimes be carried around to the places I need to go, even if it's slower than walking, because then you can indeed just relax a bit without having to worry if you're going to bump into someone or run into a car if you get distracted.

[@elflass5544]

If I hadn't watched this video it would not occur to me that this little guy was a taxi! As someone with mobility issues, it would be a nice option to hop on if you needed a break while not being removed from the neighborhood you're trying to experience (as inside a cab or subway).

[@TokyoLens]

love that view~

[@CanadaFree-ce9jn]

It doesn't seem to really be a taxi, but they didn't make this point clear. A taxi you enter a location (today to a driver) and then that taxi takes you to the destination. This seems to be more a scooter, where you go where you want without a preset destination. Also, what is the primary feature of a scooter be that manual or electric? NO SEAT.

[@sleepybakura]

I kinda love it actually. It seems... friendly. So simple but so helpful

[@MattstaNinja]

So glad you got that extra info from them starting out. Was thinking it seemed a bit slow, but when he mentioned how it going just a bit faster made people worried about hopping on it made so much sense. I could see this being something that could pick up speed over time should it become more commonplace. People getting more comfortable with it (or even just seeing other people get more comfortable with it) would likely take away most of the hesitation of a bit faster taxi.

[@CaptainNim]

I would definitely ride this, I could see it being really useful in parks, zoos, city tours for new tourists... even big buildings where it's easy to get lost or takes forever to walk around. I like it.

[@kathrynlebda780]

First thought: This is a MUCH more asthetically pleasing segway. Second thought: If this could be utilized in conjunction with buses to take those with mobility issues to specific shoping locations (almost like a very small tram way) than I could totally see the benefit in it. I think it would need to be able to accomoadte more people and need seats to really be beneficial. Third thought: If it could be bigger accomodate a couple more people than I think the original hop-on hop-off idea that the CEO had could be realized. I would love something like this at the NC State Fair when you got small children who are DONE or those who are older and need a rest but can still get to the other side of the venue. Fourth thought: I think this little taxi would work best in large museusms or warehouses where they need to get from one side to the other in relative ease. This would also allow the rider a brief rest and be able to look around.

[@jakobfindlay4136]

okay that self parking chair design was pretty cool

[@Japanesestudydreams]

Such a great idea 😂 makes me laugh tho. love it

[@TokyoLens]

wonder what they want the final version to look like

[@Japanesestudydreams]

​@@TokyoLens keep it as it is! It's adorable and i love it.

[@WatashiMachineFullCycle]

I have a funky knee from an old injury and I have to admit for mobility impairment this thing is so cool It would be nice if you could bend your knees in a safe and comfortable way - like a seat, or even something to kneel or rest a leg on. But even just having those handles is pretty good

[@Kirby7633]

Would last less than a day in a city in the USA before being vandalised.

[@TokyoLens]

lol sounds about right

[@ainz0617]

Same in Germany, sadly.

[@TheYashakami]

The use case for something like this is actually incredible. Navigating a place you've never been to, especially one of the largest cities in the world, is extremely difficult. Even with a simple use case of this being able to lead you to an area that you were not familiar with makes it extremely useful.

[@Bloodywasher]

1:30 SOLD GIMME FOURTY OF THEM IDC THE COST. Garbage man hoping on and off garbage truck, same.

[@Kediil]

I know it isn't the mainstream, but I am so glad that there are people who want these sorts of things who manage to find a place to explore their niche. Even if it never becomes mainstream, having people with this mindset and this drive to make the world better is invaluable. I hope these are the people who ultimately help us move the most forward in the world.

[@jennoq1311]

I love this thing! These little robots and AI things are just adorable to me. What a great idea.

[@becki.p]

What a beautiful, inspiring vision! I agree that we could benefit from slowing down and appreciating what's around us more. I love this! 😊

[@ItsJustLib]

I've suffered a back injury that makes it difficult for me to walk long distances without being in pain. I now focus on core strength and keeping my muscles healthy than I do on cardio as a result. This little guy would be a life saver for me and would allow me to actually be able to enjoy a city again. I wish they were everywhere.

[@purplegary]

The idea of going around places and looking at everything you can without worrying about what you are about to walk into makes a big plus for these device's as long as the costs are reasonable.

[@TheDreadfulCurtain]

I love this ! The concept and execution are just fantastic.

[@ArtisticProGamer]

Honestly, this is something very useful for accessibility. Yeah, for people who are healthy, they’re able to outrun the the small vehicle, but for someone who can’t walk as fast or isn’t able to move for long periods, this looks like a good option. Maybe, they can add one seat as well, and leave the other two just for standing.

[@yeong126]

I love how they used wood exterior to give more warm and comfortable feeling

[@Trund27]

You couldn’t pry me off one of those magical vehicles if I had one!! I love every single thing about it.

[@lonotiki]

As someone who recently healed a broken knee and ankle, this would be so fantastic to gain confidence in the streets once back up on feet, but still tender. What a gorgeous design

[@Edward_Nashton]

I love how he had the idea from the jumping on and off at the garbarge collection. I love the concept!

[@actionmarco8556]

I find this genius. Also, garbage guy used to be my dream job as a kid, just because I found it so cool that they can jump on and off a driving vehicle, so I dig the inspiration.

[@wathog01]

I really like this idea as a photographer. When you walk down the street and try to find an angle, the walking part can be a trouble. You need to constantly paying attention to the surroundings that you miss a lot of good shots. This can really take your mind out of it and let you enjoy the environment. And for tourism in general, this gives you a bit of boost on your walking tour which can be very beneficial.

[@becks5867]

This is the most stylish taxi I’ve ever seen! It was cool to see a glimpse of the boat/car. I’m still hoping you’ll get an opportunity in the future to film with it in the water 💜

[@joshabooth]

Dang that's a really interesting concept. I do think that a company has to have a vision if it truly wants to succeed. Without a guiding direction, you just go through the motions.

[@pockypimp]

I like the idea and one thing that might be a use would be for tourists going from the train stations to their hotels. Have room for 2 people and luggage and this could help guide people to their hotel. It'll take a lot of stress away for a first time visitor.

[@sixonethreesix4293]

This is ace! You could easily see these with a preprogrammed route that you could just hop on and hop off, with no need to input a personalised route.

[@DavidWong-q5f]

This reminded me of my favorite exhibit at the fair this year. It was a pianist whose piano was driving around the grounds possibly on a set path. She was playing while it was wheeling around on its own and people were running after it trying to tip her. It was so entertaining.

[@TheBluestflamingos]

Probably a lifesaver if your heels start giving you blisters! And so cute!

[@abbabaab3989]

Only the fact that it is a fully functional autonomous vehicle considered to be safe enough to transport people around the city in Japan is a huge success. It is a real object working now, not a mythical AI cybertesla that will maybe come in 2030. Huge fan!

[@StaringIntoSpaceMan]

It's an interesting concept; I could see these going around places that cover large areas, like malls, parks, etc... giving people breaks from too much walking so they could just enjoy the scenery in (slow) motion.

[@renookami4651]

Honestly, the "corporate pitch" makes total sense. This does look like a tourist gimmick but can be a good tool to learn the town's landmarks and requested desitnation's path at a person's pace instead of skipping in a taxi car. People get to see the scenery, maybe notice a place or two to go to along the way...Basically a tutorial bot for newcomers to the town. It have potential for more touristic-oriented uses tho. Add speakers (or ports to plug in your headphones, unless you connect throught bluethooth) and it becomes an actual tour-guide attraction to ride and learn about the place at the same time. As other commenters said, that could be useful in parks and zoos as well to keep older people actively up yet still able to follow the touring group. I guess you could also put a bag of groceries on top for short travels without hurting your back, it's gimicky but sure have niche potential for specific tasks. I wouldn't call it dystopian, quite the opposite. Slowing down is a luxury nowdays, for sure I'd take taking a break on one of those while my bag is on top of it, taking my time to think about what I need to do next, rather than enter alone a big automated car and have to get out so fast I'm cut in middle of planning the next move.

[@cheekychic]

It would be even more amazing it had seats. Such a creative idea, cause I'm always in a hurry on foot that I tend to never notice most of the things around me. As aways keep up the wonderful content, Norm! ❤

[@lonniedarko2643]

It's definitely a good idea and I love his explanation for it's creation! I wish them a beautiful future

[@YeohosuaSenpai]

As I get older, the more I appreciate things like this. My joints are starting to ache a bit more day by day, and yes, I know walking is good and healthy for me, but there are times something like this would help a lot, especially is a large area like Tokyo. Also, if it looks like it belongs on the Jetsons, then I want to try it.

[@Stormcrow89]

This gizmo is definitely interesting. I can see it being useful for those with limited mobility for whatever reason, or for those who are unfamiliar with an area and would rather take a little rest and focus on their surroundings while the tiny taxi does the walking for them.

[@kevinhorne9643]

I would totally use one. As en electrical engineer, this is an excellent platform to test the technologies needed for autonomous vehicles: sensors, data acquisition and control, stepper motors, and all the software that makes it work... And I agree with he jump on jump off concept as well as the increased immersion in the cityscape.

[@ChristinaTheWatercolorFox]

It’s so cute! I live in Washington DC where there are seasons when tourists take over our sidewalks all looking around while the regular ppl are rushing to get to work and these would be great to keep these pl from stopping and blocking sidewalks suddenly causing ppl to bump into them. I also like the idea of them being able to just jump on take a break from walking and chat while they take in the sights.

[@sen-hs7lo]

The design is impeccable. I love it.

[@Pez_Destroyer]

I feel like you summed it up pretty well at the end there!

[@hannahcrossett3415]

I've heard about how dangerous overstocked warehouses can be, moving a large amount of items around while trying to not bump into anyone with the heavy machinery. That little AI taxi, with a little bit of editing, could be a huge help for big companies with local warehouses, like Target.

[@zztopz7090]

I understand the concept. It moves slowly and forces people to hold on and look around, thus interracting with passerby instead of looking at their phone as they do in cabs.

[@Johnny-ww7ic]

I have a few ideas to improve the concept. First remodelate in 2 rows with 2 or 3 squares per row. Those squares will be equipped with folding chairs with special seatbelts and the capability of the vehicle to lower itself to the ground to acommodate normal and disabled people. As a bonus feature in the app for this taxi the ability to take control of the vehicle and using your phone as a remote control. The useful application for this vehicle is in pedestrian areas or low car trafic for its low speed in places such as various centers, parks and some boulevards.

[@alisaboyarkin6232]

I would use this for sure!!! I’m the type that looks around everywhere while walking/biking/skateboarding somewhere. Sometimes it means I wander off from my group lol but having coming like this to keep a person in a wandering state of mind while safely getting to the destination with a friend sounds fantastic🤩

[@ohmygosh6176]

It is a very good idea, because people who are tired, elder people, they can just use it to move around. The design has to change just a bit so it can carry two people more comfortably.