YAMAHA Announces Wheelchair Concept Model in Collaboration with Somarta's Tamie廣川

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Collaboration Model with Designer Tamaki Hirokawa (SOMA DESIGN)

Announcement of Next-Generation Wheelchair Concept Models "02GEN" and "Taurs"

Yamaha has announced the "02GEN" concept model for an electric-assist wheelchair, and the "Taurs" concept model, a collaboration with designer Tamaki Hirokawa (SOMA DESIGN) of SOMARTA, based on the 02GEN.

Text by OPENERS

A Wheelchair That Moves Beautifully and Gracefully, Designed to Be Admired

Designer Tamaki Hirokawa and Taurs

The Taurs is a concept model based on the "02GEN," the second in Yamaha's "GEN" series of electric-assist wheelchairs, embodying the company's 2013 design philosophy, "Refined Dynamism." It incorporates proposals for color, materials, and finishes by SOMARTA designer Tamaki Hirokawa (SOMA DESIGN).

The seat, which envelops the user's body, is made of embossed white leather. The frame and wheels are finished in a skin-tone ivory, while the casters feature a matte red-gold anodized coating. The design aims to express a wheelchair that transcends machinery, merging with the user's body as a partner.

Beyond its full functionality as a wheelchair, its texture and presence are refined, making it suitable for formal occasions and social gatherings, such as parties, where one might dress up to go out.

The concept behind the 02GEN, which served as the base for the Taurs, is "Merge." This signifies connection and seamless integration. Utilizing the electric-assist technology cultivated through Yamaha's electric assist bicycle PAS, it embodies a "wheelchair that moves swiftly and gracefully, complementing the user's individuality, and designed to be admired." While incorporating functional and safety aspects, it pursues comfort and is designed with a focus on the beauty of the seated posture and the seamless unity between person and wheelchair.

These models were exhibited at welfare-related events and the International Universal Design Conference held in Tokyo in November.

Yamaha Motor Public Relations Division
Tel. 0538-32-1145
http://global.yamaha-motor.com/jp/