The far-out future is here: Toyota's new concept vehicles out-do science fiction (great pics)

Yahoo News Photos ^

[Wolfstar]

Yahoo News caption: Toyota's new concept vehicle i-unit is driven in during its unveiling in Tokyo, Dec. 3, 2004. (AP Photo/Shuji Kajiyama)

The i-unit, which resembles a wheelchair, is designed to help people get around. It will be displayed at an exposition in Aichi, central Japan, next year. (AP Photo/Shuji Kajiyama)

The compact sized vehicle, which runs on lithium-ion batteries, enables the passenger to move among other people in an upright position in low speed mode, while the vehicle reclines in high speed mode to lower the centre of gravity and ensure stable handling, the company said.

[avg_freeper]

It looks like she controls it by rubbing its two silver balls.

[oyez]

What is it with Japanese people? Will they not rest until they have found a way to conquer the world with robots?

Yes. I'm afraid we're doomed.

[Wolfstar]

Here's a technological innovation it's still lacking: someplace to put your golf clubs.

LOL! Well maybe one day they'll invent a robotic caddy.

[Wolfstar]

It looks like she controls it by rubbing its two silver balls.

Hmmmmm...except for the silver part, isn't that how most women control their men, LOL!

[housewife101]

Confined" -- come on, don't go politically correct on me.

I wasn't. I am able to use a walker at home. Only have to use a wheelchair outside of my home. Nothing political correct about that. I have no problem with the word "confined" to those who are. I am much better off than some I know who really are "confined."

I was simply stating that I can stand,etc without the help of any present or future device. For those who are "confined" however, I hope such a device becomes available.

[Wolfstar]

I wasn't. I am able to use a walker at home.

Please accept my most humble apology. I misunderstood it when you said you weren't confined to a wheelchair. I think so many of us have been conditioned by political correctness to think in a narrow way. That's what I did when I saw your comment and jumped to an incorrect conclusion.

In any case, as mentioned before, I truly enjoyed our conversation. I know this thread is lighthearted, but I'm also a bit astonished at how quick so many have been to dismiss the underlying point of Toyota's rather over-the-top glossiness of its concepts introduction. You gave me an opportunity to discuss the more serious aspects of this news, and for that I'm grateful.

[bwteim]

LOL. I'll just insert Wolfstar's "Ewwwwwww..." earlier comment here!

;)

[housewife101]

Apology accepted...you don't know me so you had no way of knowing what I meant. I do hope that future technology will advance the quality of life for those who are handicapped(no I don't have a problem with that word:-) )