Kanon Concept – FPEV-2

The Kanon FPEV2 was an experimental electric car developed in Japan by the laboratory of Professor Yoichi Hori and Associate Professor Hiroshi Fujimoto at the University of Tokyo. The laboratory built it as an original test vehicle for research into new control methods that use the quick torque response of electric motors.

The small red car had four direct-drive in-wheel motors, so that every wheel could be controlled on its own. It also had active steering of both the front and rear wheels and sensors that measured the side forces on the tyres. The laboratory used it to work on advanced safety control, driving comfort, range extension control and vehicle stability on slippery roads. It also took advantage of the suspension layout to control the pitch and roll of the car.

In 2012 the laboratory opened a test track and a garage with a workshop on its Kashiwa campus, where the Kanon was kept, charged and maintained. The car was also demonstrated in front of large crowds at campus events.