Honda has unveiled an assortment of different
concepts at the Consumer Electronics Show. First, the 3E-D18 is autonomous
ATV which is described as an "off-road workhorse" which can
"support people in a broad range of work activities." The model is
based on the company's popular ATV chassis and it features an electric
powertrain, four-wheel drive, and airless tires which Honda says are
"virtually indestructible."
The 3E-D18 has been designed to accommodate an
assortment of different attachments which would make the model ideal for
everything from construction to fire fighting and search and rescue operations.
Honda also notes the autonomous technology makes the concept perfect for
performing mundane tasks or operating in dangerous environments such as a
forest fire.
The 3E-B18 goes in a different direction as it looks
like a futuristic wheelchair. Honda says the concept was designed for casual
use and notes the model has a small radius as well as a height-adjustable seat
which stays level even when the vehicle is being driven up or downhill.
The 3E-C18 resembles a small
robotic cooler. The concept is electronically powered and features autonomous
technology. Honda says the model "can learn by observing how people
act" and can carry small objects in its body.
Perhaps the weirdest concept is the 3E-A18 which is
a companion robot that can understand and respond to human emotions with facial
expressions. Honda says the concept could serve as a guide at airports or
shopping malls and the company even gave the model a "soft exterior
skin" so people can hug it.
Honda also used the show to introduce the PCX
Electric and 4W-Vehicle concepts. The models use portable, swappable, and
rechargeable batteries which each have an output of at least 1 kWh. The
vehicles have been designed to accommodate multiple batteries and Honda says
drivers can simply swap them out for fully recharged batteries when needed.
