The experimental vehicle, known as Toyota Space Mobility, has all-wheel steering and an electric motor for each wheel. It's capable of climbing rocks up to nearly 50 centimeters (20 inches) high and can also climb 25-degree inclines. This is more than just for show, as Toyota calls it a prototype that will be tested for real. The lessons learned will then be applied to other vehicles designed for use on the moon, such as the Lunar Cruiser.
Designed for "unforgiving extraterrestrial environments," the Space Mobility is predictably small because it needs to be agile and nimble on rough terrain. According to Toyota, it's only 3,460 millimeters (136 inches) long, making it only slightly longer than a kei car. The unworldly electric vehicle with an open cockpit and meaty tires is 2,175 mm (85.6 inches) wide and 1,865 mm (73.4 inches) tall.
The Lunar Cruiser and Space Mobility are not the only projects Toyota has in mind for space. Earlier this month, the Baby Lunar Cruiser was unveiled with FJ40 styling cues and airless tires. It, too, had in-wheel motors and was designed to "conquer rugged terrain on Earth and beyond.
Source: Toyota
