Here's two new mecha from Toyota, o­ne of which looks like a cheesy sci-fi movie "car of the future."

I don't think these technically qualify as robots, because a "robot" is "a machine or device that operates automatically or by remote control." According to google, at least. Rather, you need to ride inside of these to make them work.

Please note that this is o­nly an extract of the Impress Watch article, because the rest of it doesn't deal with these two mecha. Also, there are videos at Impress Watch, so take a look if you're interested.

-i-unit

The "i-unit" emerged from the darkness with a dancer inside. This is a development model of the "PM" concept model shown by the Toyota group at the "37th Tokyo Motor Show" held during 2003. When compared to the PM, this model has become quite a bit smaller.

At the left hand is a controller that moves the mecha forward when it is pushed forward, and will turn the robot to the left and right when it is rotated. The concept of transforming to a low posture for high speed travel has also been taken directly. The canopy has become a bit smaller, but as it covers the space in front of the face, it creates a generally radiant unit.

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-i-foot

The i-foot is a large robot weighing about 200kg for transporting people. The legs resemble a chicken's legs, making it easy for the operator to board. It can transport 60kg. According to Mr. Souya Takagi, Manager of Tokyo Automotive Corporation's New Development Department, it can also go up and down stairs indoors. Control is with a joystick at the right hand.

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Inspired by:
http://pc.watch.impress.co.jp/docs/2004/1203/toyota.htm

News Release:
http://www.toyota.co.jp/jp/news/04/Dec/nt04_1201.html

Robot Information:
http://www.toyota.co.jp/jp/news/04/Dec/nt04_1201c.html

i-unit Information:
http://www.toyota.co.jp/jp/news/04/Dec/nt04_1201d.html