Hyundai is edging closer to the realization of a revolutionary walking car, also known as the Ultimate Mobility Vehicle (UMV), as it prepares for production. This groundbreaking vehicle possesses the unique ability to reach places that conventional trucks or cars cannot access.
Enhanced maneuverability is made possible through a combination of traditional wheels and a foot mechanism. CarBuzz reports that Hyundai has filed a patent for this innovation with the German Patent and Trademark Office.
CarBuzz explains, “In some embodiments, the foot-wheel drive is accomplished by employing several foot-wheel units. Four axle units are employed, working in unison to enable the desired propulsion.”
The UMV is designed to be highly adaptable and serves a variety of purposes, including search and rescue missions. Hyundai offers both a larger passenger version and a smaller “unmanned” version suitable for exploration or freight transportation.
In “walk” mode, the UMV can navigate challenging terrains and steep inclines, even effortlessly “jumping over” gaps. Surprisingly, patent filings suggest that the walking motion provides better maneuverability. Additionally, the vehicle’s movement is significantly quieter compared to traditional wheels.
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Hyundai claims that the UMV can move sideways, allowing it to avoid obstacles and clear paths effectively. This innovative vehicle is engineered to ensure smooth progress and showcases Hyundai’s commitment to cutting-edge design.
Thanks to the wheel-mounted electric motor, the UMV’s suspension does not require conventional axles. Hyundai developed the UMV in response to the evolving landscape of mobility. Rather than waiting for consumer demand, the automaker proactively anticipates the future needs of customers and individuals.
As previously mentioned, the UMV offers great convenience to parents, simplifying ingress and egress compared to previous models. The possibilities for its usage are virtually endless. For instance, the UMV could be employed by on-terrain emergency services requiring a larger vehicle than an SUV. Hyundai’s preview images also depict the UMV as a taxi, effortlessly lifting itself to serve passengers with mobility challenges right at their doorsteps.