Honda has been fairly opposed to all electric vehicles ever since it dug it’s heels into the hydrogen powered sand with it’s FCX Clarity, a hydrogen fuel cell powered vehicle which it hoped would catch on. Since that didn’t go to plan, they’re now starting to dip their toes into the world of EVs at last. Though looking at this latest prototype, this might not be a good thing.

If you can imagine riding around on a vertical, chrome-coated peanut husk then you have a pretty good idea of what I’m talking about. The device in question is called the U3-X and could be perhaps the most impractical device since that mop invention that attaches to infants to help clean the floor.

The U3-X has a top speed of just over 3 mph and has a range of almost 4 miles. It requires the rider to sit on top, with feet resting on motorcycle-like pedals, and both hands holding onto the handlebars attached to the seat.

With an estimated price of between $1500 to $2000 US, this little thing could not only lighten your wallet, but also increase your waistline.

I keep thinking that perhaps I’m being too harsh. Perhaps it could have it’s uses. Truth be told, every time I think of a practical use for the device, it’s shot down by logic.

For example:

Potential Use

• Inter-city road transport
• Pedestrian transport
• Elderly mobility
• Disability mobility
• Mail delivery

Why it won’t work

• Far too slow
• Range too limited
• Too awkward to ride
• Needs constant control of both hands & legs to operate
• Hands not free to handle mail – and even Chihuahua’s could keep up.

I’d honestly love to hear from you readers out there. If you can think of a practical use for this device I want to know. Even though walking is so last century, for the time being I think Honda should focus on making quality, full-sized electric vehicles and put this idea back on the drawing board.