Japan re-invents the skateboard

Tokyo tech startup Cocoa Motors is taking re-orders for its WalkCar, an electric vehicle it dubs the world’s first “laptop-sized super car”

Body material: Carbon fibre
Size: 33cm (like 13in laptop)
Max speed: 16km/h (10mph)
Weight: 2.8kg (6.2lbs)
Drive time: 60 mins
Charge time: 60 mins

WalkCar can handle relatively uneven urban terrain and inclines or ramps

Brake: Lean back slightly

Accelerate: Lean forwards slightly

Cost: $1,280 (€1,200 £1,040)

Orders ship: Sep 2017

Revolving castors: Similar to shopping cart

Drive wheels: Electric motor powered by battery pack

CONTROLS

Direction: Applying pressure to left or right foot, by leaning over slightly, steers WalkCar in similar way to skateboard

Sources: Cocoa Motors, wire agencies

Pictures: Cocoa Motors