
Italian scooter manufacturer Piaggio has invented the world's first autonomous carrier robot.
Called the GITA, the small autonomous vehicle has been created to carry up to 18kg at up to speeds of 35km/h.
Spherical in shape, the GITA is claimed to be able to move independently around a mapped area and can follow its owner autonomously if they wear a white locating belt that incorporates a forward-facing camera.
Using a combination of a live feed from the camera, location sensors and stored maps, the cargo robot can locate itself and 'learn’ its environment.
Once a trip has been completed the robo-carrier is capable of a return journey without its owner.
As well as the GITA, Piaggio will also offer a larger version called the KILO that can carry up to 100kg and is claimed to have 'extraordinary stability' thanks to its third wheel.
Both GITA and KILO were launched last week in the US, although pricing has yet to be announced.