GM-Segway Project P.U.M.A. Prototype, is GM doing this only for Eco-Props?

Being an optimist I would like to think GM is moving toward a Greener future with the Project P.U.M.A. Prototype they're doing with Segway and the forth coming Chevy Volt but we will just have to wait and see. But while we wait check just how dope the P.U.M.A. really is!

Think of it as a digital solution to an analog problem. Segway’s P.U.M.A. (Personal
Urban Mobility & Accessibility) prototype represents the shift that’s needed for the future of transportation. It values less over more; taking up less space, using less energy, produced more efficiently with fewer parts, creating fewer emissions during production and operation, all while offering more enjoyment, productivity, and connectivity.

Take a test drive and you quickly understand that this is something completely different. The elegance and maneuverability of dynamic stabilization combined with proven battery, sensing, and controls technologies come together to solve real transportation challenges. This prototype represents only the first step of what’s possible in a technology collaboration between Segway and General Motors.

DYNAMIC STABILIZATION
That’s fancy speak for the tech that enables balancing. It’s proprietary and full of benefits such as incredible maneuverability (true zero turning radius), a small footprint and providing a fantastically unique riding experience.

ELECTRIC PROPULSION

Besides being clean and extremely efficient, electric propulsion enables fine adjustments to be made to each wheel (for turning and smoothing out the ride), and a precise, software-based approach to traction control and braking.

INTUITIVE USER INTERFACES
When you feel it, you know it. Segway’s approach to user control is that of minimalism and a natural connection between man and machine. Our innovative sensing technologies allow us to look beyond traditional controls that haven’t changed dramatically since the introduction of the automatic transmission.

SMART BATTERY MANAGEMENT

Segway is one of the world’s largest customers of large format batteries, and was at the forefront of the development of Lithium Ion batteries for transportation. We’ve learned a lot about the advanced sensing needed inside and applied this expertise to allow for more efficient energy use that leads to a longer battery life. Add in regenerative braking capability (being able to recharge while decelerating) and that’s some smart battery tech.

ADVANCED SENSING

If there’s a feeling you get when trying a Segway product, it’s like it can almost read your mind. Well, it’s not magic. It’s the combination of propulsion, energy, inertial sensing and an incredibly intuitive user interface that enables a ride that will force you to hold back a smile. Hopefully someday you’ll have a chance to try it out and feel good about your commute instead of fearing it.

DRIVE-BY-WIRE

Mechanical controls are so yesterday. We’re all about using the latest in sensory technology to enable safe control through redundant systems that provide input for acceleration, braking, steering, and other functions.

DIGITAL DASHBOARD

Get all the information you need about system operation through connected devices. Speed, battery life, and other connectivity information are all conveyed over a secure wireless connection to a handheld device that can be mounted on the dash.