Kawasaki Corleo, a four-legged robotic vehicle concept powered by a hydrogen engine that aims to revolutionize individual off-road mobility within the next 25 years, presented at Expo 2025
Exactly ten years after the Milan edition, Expo returns this year to Japan—specifically Osaka—focusing on the technological evolution of a more environmentally sustainable future. Technology-driven innovation has long been a cornerstone of Japan’s development, especially since the post-World War II era, with the nation continuously pioneering advanced solutions that often set global trends.
With this same forward-looking ambition, Kawasaki introduces “Corleo”—a quadruped robotic concept vehicle designed to revolutionize off-road personal mobility within the next 25 years. Unveiled in Osaka at Expo 2025, the “Corleo” project represents a futuristic fusion of cutting-edge motorcycle engineering and advanced robotics. This union is made explicit through a chassis derived from Kawasaki’s expertise in the motorcycle sector, crafted from lightweight, high-strength materials—primarily carbon fiber—aimed at minimizing overall weight without compromising structural durability or reliability.
The “Corleo” frame is engineered to withstand extreme stress, a key feature needed to support the complex motion dynamics of a mobile robotic entity. By integrating motorcycle-style dynamic control with advanced robotic capabilities, Corleo can perform agile and flexible movements. This is made possible through multifunctional joints and precision actuators, which together enable a wide range of programmable motions and the ability to adapt to diverse terrains.
Future
Corleo also interacts with its surroundings using lidar sensors and machine vision systems, allowing it to make real-time autonomous decisions and navigate safely through complex or crowded environments. This is further enhanced by an AI system based on machine learning technology, enabling Corleo to adapt to any type of terrain. Using advanced algorithms, Kawasaki’s four-legged robot can automatically predict and compensate for balance dynamics, ensuring a smooth and effortless ride—even for less experienced users—and can even adjust its behavior based on the user’s preferences.
Powering Corleo is a 150cc hydrogen engine located at the rear of the robot. This engine drives the four independent leg actuators, managed through energy optimization systems that adjust power use based on environmental conditions. These parameters are visible in real time to the user via an integrated digital dashboard, which displays essential operational data such as travel speed, center of gravity position, and heading direction.
Titolo: Kawasaki Corleo: riding the future
Translation with ChatGPT
