Kawasaki Heavy Industries has introduced a new robotic mobility concept—Corleo—a four-legged, hydrogen-powered vehicle designed for off-road travel. The prototype was revealed ahead of the Osaka-Kansai Expo 2025, where Kawasaki plans to showcase future-facing mobility solutions.
Corleo features four independently articulated legs ending in rubberized hooves, allowing it to traverse varied terrain such as rubble, rocky surfaces, and grasslands. The rear and front legs operate semi-independently to absorb movement shocks and maintain stability over uneven ground. Kawasaki describes Corleo as a platform for mobility in areas that are not accessible to traditional wheeled vehicles.
Hydrogen Engine and Sustainability Goals
Powering the robot is a 150cc hydrogen engine, which generates electricity for the motors in each leg. The system emits only water, aligning with Kawasaki’s broader sustainability and low-emission targets. The hydrogen-based approach highlights a growing interest in alternative energy sources for robotics and mobility solutions beyond electric batteries.
Human-Robot Interface and Control
Corleo is designed to be operated by a human rider. Control is achieved through body shifts, with sensors in the handlebars and stirrups interpreting weight distribution and movement to steer and balance the robot. An onboard screen displays key data such as hydrogen levels, weight distribution, and navigation details. For nighttime use, Corleo projects visual guides onto the terrain to mark its intended path.
Commercial Potential and Future Plans
While Corleo remains in the concept stage, Kawasaki is presenting it as a vision of what robotics-based transport might look like in the coming decades. No firm development timeline has been disclosed, though the company has suggested a possible market entry by 2050. The platform is part of Kawasaki’s broader “Robust Robotics” strategy, which focuses on machines that can operate in unpredictable or challenging environments.
