Designed to leave accidents in the dust, this zero-emissions Motorrad Vision Next 100 uses self-balancing technology that purports to make the vehicle accident-proof and even let bikers ride sans helmet.

“We imagine all the downsides of riding a motorcycle to be gone,” said the designers. “The vehicle will be so safe that you cannot fall over, and accidents will be a thing of the past.”

As the user rides, the balancing system keeps the bike upright and adjusts banking angles while smart glasses screen ahead for hazards (a real trouble spot with fast riding even on open country roads).

Moving the handlebars adjusts the entire frame, not just the front wheel.  The design of the bike is largely based on the BMW R32, which was designed in 1923. The R32’s triangular frame has been reinterpreted, with bearings and joints hidden to make the frame appear as a singular volume.

The surface of the frame is covered in matt black textile, while body elements such as the seat, upper frame cover and wings are made of carbon fibre. The BMW logo is illuminated in blue and white colours while the bike is being driven, and red strips under the seat form the rear light and indicators.

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With luxury befitting Bruce Wayne and dark details worthy of Batman, this BMW concept bike by Istanbul-based Mehmet Erdem is a fresh take on a fancy ride.

The ‘Titan’ lets you lean into curves, hugging an aerodynamic frame with a side-clipped rear tire hugged by turn signals and break lights.

The whole thing looks as much like a transformer as a motorcycle, containing storage space or places for your hidden crime-fighting weaponry alongside the front wheel. Alas, like the Caped Crusader himself, this Dark Knight cycle is unlikely to go from concept to reality anytime soon.

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MINI is known for its tiny, adorable cars, but in November 2014 they joined the ranks of companies looking toward greener, even smaller transportation. Their Citysurfer electric scooter was designed to cut down on traffic congestion in busy urban areas by providing a “last mile” solution. With the foldable scooter, motorists can park outside of the city center and then ride the rest of the way to their destination.

The Citysurfer folds up small enough to fit into the back of a MINI, which is very impressive when you consider just how tiny an area that is. Of course, it can be stashed and carried in other car makes, as well. At just 40 pounds, it’s substantial enough to feel like it isn’t going to break when you hit a bump but light enough that almost everyone will be able to easily lift it into the trunk or even onto a bus or train.

The retro-styled little scooter has a top speed of 15 MPH and a 10 to 15-mile range. Its lithium-ion battery can be charged from a normal wall outlet. The motor is located in the rear wheel and acceleration is controlled with the thumb. It’s not activated until the user first pushes off with his or her foot and reaches a minimum speed – a smart way to avoid falls from too-fast motorized starts.

Large wheels let the scooter handle uneven terrain and three separate braking systems keep the ride smooth and safe. Alas, the Citysurfer isn’t yet available for purchase, and MINI isn’t handing out details on when or if it might be produced commercially.

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BMW rolled the electric car movement further into the mainstream in 2014 by introducing two new electric cars: the i3 and the i8. The former is a three-door hatchback coupe, while the i8 is a sporty two-door boasting 357 horsepower. To further cement their commitment to creating eco-friendly transportation, BMW also developed a charger for their new e-cars that uses completely off-grid power.

The i Solar Carport is made of sustainable, fast-growing bamboo and topped with efficient glass solar panels. The panels collect solar energy and send it directly to the EVs via BMW’s i Wallbox Pro, a charging module mounted directly to the carport. The readout on the Wallbox indicates just how much energy is being generated. After your car is charged, any excess solar energy can be directed to your home, actually saving money on your home electricity costs.

Pricing information isn’t readily available; the BMW website directs consumers to speak with dealers about purchasing their own i Solar Carport. Given its high quality materials and the high-end BMW brand, we expect it won’t be cheap. But if you’re going to throw down $41,000 (the i3) to $135,000 (the i8) on an electric BMW, you might as well go a little further to get a personal charging station that can power your home as well as your car.

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Kuala Lumpur is about to get what might be the classiest subway trains in the world. The city is trying hard to get more citizens to take public transportation, so they are installing 58 gorgeous new trains designed by BMW. DesignworksUSA, a subsidiary of German car makers BMW, designed the cars to be appealing both in appearance and in experience.

One of the goals in this project was to build a system that honored the area’s rich cultural identity while inspiring progress. The exterior of each train displays a pattern of lights that call to mind the faceted architecture of the city. The interior of the trains uses an LED lighting system beneath the seats to inspire a feeling of spaciousness and safety.

Even the interior of the trains will pay homage to the traditions of the area. The interior color scheme features traditional Malaysian patterns in varying shades of blue, reminiscent of the vitality of Kuala Lumpur. The trains will also be kind to disabled passengers, with hand rails, space for wheelchairs, and sound and light indicators to indicate when the doors are opening and closing.

The train cars themselves are nearly as impressive as their appearance and features. They are made of lightweight stainless steel with weight-optimized components. When the trains reach the end of their estimated 30-year lifespan, they will be approximately 95 percent recyclable. The 58 new driverless trains will be in use in Kuala Lumpur’s subway system by 2017.

The post Next-Gen Kuala Lumpur Subway Cars Designed by BMW first appeared on Gajitz.