Yamaha MWC-4 concept is an interesting solution to urban mobility

Yamaha debuted a motorcycle-inspired MWC-4 concept in Tokyo featuring a hybrid powertrain and Transformer-like looks.

Jon Wong

Oct. 26, 2017 1:59 a.m. PT

Leer en español

1 of 17

Chris Paukert/Roadshow

Yamaha MWC-4

Looking a bit like a steampunk golf cart or some sort of insectoid Transformer, Yamaha's MWC-4 is a single-seat personal mobility device that leans into corners.

Read the article

2 of 17

Chris Paukert/Roadshow

Yamaha MWC-4

Powered comes from dual electric motors that are backed by a small range-extender engine.

3 of 17

Chris Paukert/Roadshow

Yamaha MWC-4

The spindly runabout looks well suited to densely populated cities with low-speed traffic where maneuverability and ease of parking are prime assets.

4 of 17

Chris Paukert/Roadshow

Yamaha MWC-4

Yamaha used the Tokyo Motor Show to rollout an interesting leaning multi-wheel concept.

5 of 17

Chris Paukert/Roadshow

Yamaha MWC-4

Yamaha says the MWC-4's suspension setup provides a level of ride quality not found on a conventional motorcycle.

6 of 17

Chris Paukert/Roadshow

Yamaha MWC-4

The MWC-4's Transformer-like looks are the result of Yamaha drawing design inspiration from motorcycles and music instruments and smashing them together in the concept.

7 of 17

Chris Paukert/Roadshow

Yamaha MWC-4

Measuring just 8.7 feet in length and 2.9 feet in width, the small mobility device is well suited to navigate crowded city streets.

8 of 17

Chris Paukert/Roadshow

Yamaha MWC-4

A digital screen inside the of the Yamaha MWC-4.

9 of 17

Chris Paukert/Roadshow

Yamaha MWC-4

Since this is a Yamaha product, the company also made sure there was space in the MWC-4 concept to safely carry a music instrument in a seatback compartment.