Suzuki Motor invests in autonomous compact EV maker Glydways

Suzuki Motor Corporation has invested in the California-based start-up Glydways Inc, which develops on-demand personal rapid transit of autonomous, battery-operated compact electric vehicles with the size of mini vehicles traveling on dedicated lanes.

Glydways’ goal is to revolutionise urban mobility through its new traffic system claimed to be more efficient and convenient with lower infrastructure and operating costs. In addition to the investment, Suzuki and Glydways have begun discussions about partnering on vehicle development and manufacturing.

As per the Glydways website, the Glydcar is a personal vehicle designed for urban mobility. Glydcars autonomously move in dedicated lanes, carrying up to four passengers directly to their destination with no stops. Glydcars are designed for passengers with space for all of the things passengers need, like bikes and luggage. Glydcars are also fully ADA-compliant, with room to comfortably ride with a wheelchair.

Commenting on the investment, Toshihiro Suzuki, president of Suzuki Motor Corp, said: “We have a keen interest in the Glydways mission to solve traffic issues globally by using their compact vehicles and lightweight, dedicated infrastructure. Their solution has much in common with Suzuki’s ‘Smaller, Fewer, Lighter, Shorter, and Beauty’ philosophy, and we would like to support Glydways in achieving its vision by offering our expertise, experience, and technology for making small cars."

Lead image: Glydways