Kawasaki has begun development of the Corleo, a four-legged off-road mobility vehicle powered by hydrogen. While the Corleo isn’t a two-wheeler, it comes from one of the world’s biggest motorcycle manufacturers, a company that has never shied away from unconventional ideas. Kawasaki is targeting its use as an on-site mobility vehicle at Expo 2030 Riyadh in Saudi Arabia and is working towards commercialisation around 2035.
- Corleo is a four-legged off-road mobility vehicle
- Uses a 150cc hydrogen engine to generate electricity
- Commercialisation targeted around 2035
Kawasaki Corleo combines motorcycle and robotics technology
The Corleo was first unveiled as a concept at Expo 2025 Osaka. Kawasaki has since established a dedicated SAFE ADVENTURE Business Development Team to take the vehicle towards commercialisation, with potential use at Expo 2030 Riyadh forming part of its plans.
The Corleo uses four independently controlled legs instead of conventional wheels. Its rear legs feature a swingarm mechanism derived from motorcycle technology, allowing them to move independently and absorb shocks while helping maintain the rider’s posture.
The vehicle is operated through the rider’s weight shifts, much like riding a horse. Stirrups and handholds detect these movements and feed the rider’s inputs into the vehicle’s control system. Kawasaki says the system is designed to help the Corleo negotiate difficult terrain, including mountainous areas and water crossings.
Corleo uses a 150cc hydrogen engine
Hydrogen is stored in canisters at the rear of the vehicle. A 150cc hydrogen engine generates electricity to power actuators in the four legs and the vehicle body. Kawasaki says the hydrogen storage canisters are designed to be swappable, allowing them to be replaced away from conventional refuelling infrastructure.
The Corleo’s control system also monitors the vehicle’s posture and movement, helping it respond to the terrain beneath its four legs. Kawasaki is developing the machine for use in environments where conventional wheeled mobility could be difficult.
Kawasaki plans Corleo riding simulator
Kawasaki is also developing a riding simulator for the Corleo, with completion targeted for 2027. The simulator will be used to evaluate the vehicle’s riding characteristics and operation. Potential applications in gaming and esports are also being explored.
The company is targeting commercialisation of the Corleo around 2035, although production specifications and pricing have not yet been announced. It is continuing development as part of its SAFE ADVENTURE initiative, which also includes technology designed to assess factors such as weather, road-surface conditions and wildlife when determining safer routes.
Vishal Venugopal
Azaman Chothia
