Tokyo Motor Show's Quirky List

Somewhere in between very-small-car and rather-large-motorcycle, this 4-wheeled 2-seater is a dedicated EV. Having the passenger sit directly behind the driver, the PICO manages to keep its overall footprint extremely narrow, allowing for easy maneuverability in crowded urban environments. Daihatsu conceived the PICO as an ideal personal transport for an aging population to go about their daily activities with ease, but there's probably a few in the un-aged populace that would love to rip around in this funky number.

Honda E-Canopy

Although similar to the Daihatsu PICO concept, this trike ain't winning style points with anybody. Having only one seat means that if the proud E-Canopy owner has, say, a friend... well, have fun taking the bus, buddy, I'm full. Honda says that this EV would also make a great delivery vehicle, though it's not clear where pizza guy would stash a large meatlovers or three.

Honda Micro Commuter

The Micro Commuter may be a strange design, but this dedicated EV is every bit the modern city dwellers commuting dream. A highly connected vehicle, the Micro Commuter can (in concept) sync with a smart phone to download travel directions, itineraries and such which are projected vehicle's dash and on its screen, holographic HUD-style. Although its 60km range is perhaps a tad shy of reasonable, at least its 0-100km/h time of 7.4 seconds is not too shabby. If you're running late and don't feel like running from where you parked to your final destination, grab the Motor Compo (see below) out the, uh, trunk and away you go.

Honda Motor Compo

This electric collapsible mini-scooter is designed to fit right in to the Micro Commuter (see above). It's a symbiot, in fact: the Motor Compo's battery helps power the host vehicle's ancillary equipment (radio, a/c, etc.) allowing further driving range. The battery of the Motor Compo can also be detached entirely and used as a mobile power station for everyday electronics such as laptops and media players. As for collapsing to the size of a carry-on, well that's the OMFG prize right there.

Kowa Tmsuk Kobots

The Kowa Tmsuk Kobot V, B, and p (pi) seem to have more in common with videogame arcades that street cars, or some fantastical science-fiction hybridized conception of both. Fully integrating with modern smart phones and equipped with video game like controls, the Kobots really are striking to behold. Of course, seeing as Japanese culture often comes off as a fantastical science-fiction hybridized conception of reality itself, these new generation transportation solutions would probably seem mundane on Japanese streets - crazy weird everywhere else, though.

Nissan PIVO3

Nissan bills the PIVO3 as a realistic near-future EV. Of its many quirks, the extra-ultra-compact 3-seater can make a u-turn in a single lane width. Where it really takes the techno cake, however, is in its "Automated Valet Parking (AVP)." Within parking facilities equipped with the appropriate technology, the PIVO3 can drop its passengers off at the door then go find a spot and park itself. Hailed from a smartphone, it will also drive itself back to pick up. It's even let you drive after that. Basically, it comes when it's called - like a puppy, except obedient.

Smile Park WHILL

What's that? A legacy left by X-Men's Professor Xavier? Giant headphones on a wheel chair? Some misguided translation of "rock 'n' roll" or just a really bad pun? None of the above. An ingeniously designed piece of equipment, the WHILL attaches directly to a user's non-motorized wheelchair and makes it, well, motorized. Its aim is to extend the world of those who wish to explore it with the flexibility and maneuverability of a traditional wheelchair, less the exertion. The electric motors in the WHILL allow for speeds up to 20km/h. Its intuitive controls are said to make it simple to use - though at 20km/h, some might be inclined to think "abuse" and doesn't that sound like fun?

Daihatsu FC Sho Case

This box on wheels - literally - is lightweight and tiny. At about 11 feet long, the FC Sho Case is shorter than Toyota Yaris but is awkwardly tall. Powered by rare metal-free liquid fuel cell technology, this quirky transport sports its green credentials with pride. The interior is designed with a completely flat floor while seats and steering that can be stowed away, transforming it in to a cavernous cabin - perfect for camping, or for mounting a 60-inch TV in - as the model on display at the Tokyo Motor Show had - or maybe both?

Yamaha PAS WITH

This stylized bicycle is a two-trick pony. Not only is it capable of using its electric motor to assist when pedaling becomes too much like work, it can also be folded down for easy transport or storage. The PAS WITH also comes equipped with front and rear suspension along with a belt instead of a chain, reportedly making for a smooth riding experience. Electric bikes are not a new concept, but this is by far the sexiest looking one yet conceived.

News Source: Evergeek Media