Toyota's Winglet a Segway killer?

I didn't even know the Segway was big enough to merit killing, but Toyota appears to want to give it a go anyway, with its Winglet transportation system. Though considerably smaller and slower, the Winglet uses the same basic technology as the Segway: Gyroscopes help keep it (and you) upright whether you're zipping along or standing still, even though the Winglet has just two wheels to balance on.

Different models have been developed, including some that you grip between your legs, keeping your hands free during the ride (presumably so you can talk on your cell phone while you cruise along at 3.7 miles per hour).

The pathetic top speed is what most observers are already carping on. The average man walks at about 3.5 miles per hour normally, and can go 4.5 mph or faster with just a modicum of effort. The small wheels likely mean it would fare poorly on even the slightest amount of roughness in terrain. So why would anyone use the Winglet?

Well, the answer is probably the same as it is for the Segway, which is similarly and rarely really used for anything useful: It's a high-tech toy. The hip kids would probably kill to tool around the mall on this thing (provided it can be had for a few hundred bucks... we'll see what the price ends up being), and even grown-ups are probably itching for a way to compete with the youth, who get to buzz around the grocery store on those little wheels that pop out of their shoes. (That said, Toyota claims the device is intended for the aging members of Japanese society, better enabling them to get around.)

Toyota is set to start testing sales of the device in Japan later this year. No news on whether it will ever come to the U.S., but I'm hopeful. If you've ever ridden on a Segway, you know how addictive it can be, even if it's completely impractical. Winglet looks at least like 2/3 the fun... and it's small enough to actually fit in the trunk.

LINK: Toyota Announces Segway Killer: The Winglet Personal Transporter