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Innovation
Toyota tinkers with baby Segways
Toyota on Friday announced that it is tinkering with a robot called the Winglet, which technically is "a personal transport assistance robot ridden in a standing position." Translation: Toyota may be eyeballing Segway's turf.
The automaker said in a statement that the Winglet is still being refined, but is designed to help people get around.
Toyota said the Winglet consists of a small body with an electric motor, two wheels and sensors that ensure stability. A rider can control the device by shifting body weight. There are also three models ranging from practical to sporty.
Here's a look at the models that Toyota will be testing out in the fall at the Central Japan International Airport (Centrair) near Nagoya, and Laguna Gamagori, a seaside resort complex in Aichi Prefecture. Toyota will test the Winglet in shopping crowds in 2009.
