Tokyo-based robotics venture ZMP has developed a mini vehicle that is about one-tenth the size of a real car and able to drive autonomously. Equipped with a CCD camera and an infrared laser system, the robo-car is able to detect obstacles and calculate their distance.

Powered by a nickel metal hydride battery, it can drive up to one hour continuously, avoiding any obstacle in its path. Weighing about 3kg, the cars are sized at 429×195x212mm.

Users can control their robo-cars via a remote-control. The Linux-supported vehicles can communicate with each other, too.

ZMP will start selling therobots as early as this month with prices ranging from about $6,000 to $13,000 (for a stylized body). The company hopes to sell 200 units in the first year and is open for orders from abroad.

Via Robot Watch [JP]