japan
Awesome robotic tactile sensory skills
Proof that Japanese robots will be ready to kick our ass sooner than expected. More here and here.
Hanson Robotics Zeno Robokind
I was going to post about this totally creepy-cool Albert Einstein robot. While looking for the company / lab responsible I came up with Hanson Robotics. Check out the little guy below – 299 USD. Some amazing toys around the corner – welcome to the future.
Japanese Maple desktop background
This amazing photo of a Japanese maple tree by ahp_ibanez reminds me of a favorite film, The Fountain. The image above links to a cropped version for a 1280×800 macbook desktop background.
Honda Insight, most affordable hybrid
Affordable Honda hybrid on sale as soon as spring 2009, under 20k USD. Honda achieved a significant cost reduction in Integrated Motor Assist (IMA) components which should make Insight the most affordable hybrid vehicle to date. The production Insight will be offered as a five-door, five-passenger hatchback. Numerous technologies, including a function to assist customers [...]
MiEV
The Mistubishi MiEV will be out next year in Japan for just under 38K USD. The MiEV has a 75 mile range and a quick charge (80% of charge to batteries) in 30 minutes. via ecomodder.com