ART for Human Possibilities
Yamaha Motor is developing low-speed electric mobility solutions to address transportation challenges arising from Japan's aging population and urban migration. The adaptable platform is designed for various applications, including first- and last-mile transportation for residents and industrial use.
Today, low-speed electric vehicles dubbed “Green Slow Mobility (GSM)” are beginning to take to public roads all across Japan. The vehicles are part of a small-scale transportation service that utilise electric vehicles running on public roads at speeds under 20 km/h.
What served as a forerunner to this initiative was Yamaha Motor Powered Products Co., Ltd.,* a Yamaha Motor group company handling golf car and land car businesses, participating in a project led by the city of Wajima in Ishikawa Prefecture to explore new modes of transportation within its jurisdiction. In 2014, a low-speed vehicle based on a Yamaha land car became the first of its kind in Japan to obtain a kei ultracompact vehicle license plate and began testing on public roads, shuttling resident seniors and tourists around the city.
Following this, the project moved to conducting real-world testing of an automated driving system using electromagnetic induction wires, and in these ways became a role model for other local governments facing similar issues.
To date, Yamaha Motor has assisted with over 100 real-world tests and full-scale introductions in various locations around Japan, and the data and knowledge gained through these tests is being put toward further advancements in technologies and products.
The platform’s high versatility and expandability features a slim and compact body design suited to navigating narrow roads, a low floor for easy boarding and exiting by seniors and children, as well as an open, spacious-feeling design. With a lineup of three models and ranging in capacity from 4 to 7 people, these vehicles are promoting the concept of fun, comfortable, and convenient mobility.
*A group company in Japan that develops, manufactures, and sells power products, such as golf cars, land cars, and snowblowers. It also manufactures industrial-use unmanned helicopters and other Yamaha Motor products.