Piaggio transformed its charming follow robot into a Star Wars droid

Piaggio creates Star Wars-themed follow bot for $2,875.

: Piaggio Fast Forward has unveiled a special edition follow robot inspired by Star Wars, priced at $2,875. The G1T4-M1N1 model shares the same features as the Gitamini, including a 20-pound carrying capacity, a 7-hour or 24-mile battery life, and a 6 MPH top speed, while adding Star Wars decals and sound effects. The device targets Star Wars fans, although challenges such as poor stair navigation and potential theft concerns exist. Piaggio envisions a future with more accessible assistive robots, despite the current niche appeal and high price of their products.

Piaggio Fast Forward (PFF), a subsidiary of the renowned Italian scooter manufacturer Piaggio, has unveiled a special edition of its Gitamini cargo robot, aptly named G1T4-M1N1. This release, timed to coincide with Star Wars Day on May 4th, is a collaborative effort with Disney and Lucasfilm. The G1T4-M1N1 is designed to resemble an astromech droid from the Star Wars universe, featuring a yellow-and-white paint scheme, droid-inspired decals, and sound effects reminiscent of R2-D2's iconic beeps and boops.

Functionally, the G1T4-M1N1 retains all the capabilities of the standard Gitamini. It can autonomously follow its user at speeds up to 6 mph, thanks to an array of cameras and sensors that enable obstacle avoidance and smooth navigation. The robot can carry up to 20 pounds of cargo in its bin and has a battery life of approximately seven hours, allowing it to travel up to 21 miles on a single charge.

Enhancements specific to the G1T4-M1N1 include responsive sound and light notifications that indicate battery status and operational modes. Users can customize settings through the Mygita mobile app, which also allows for Bluetooth music playback via the robot's built-in speaker. The app provides additional functionalities such as checking battery life, adjusting sound volumes, and assigning a custom name to the droid.

Priced at $2,875, the G1T4-M1N1 is $400 more expensive than the standard Gitamini model. This premium pricing reflects the added Star Wars-themed features and the limited-edition nature of the product. The droid is available for purchase through PFF's online store and DisneyStore.com, and it is being showcased at the Disney Store in Times Square from May 2 to May 6, 2025.

The G1T4-M1N1 represents a fusion of practical robotics and pop culture, offering Star Wars enthusiasts a functional companion that brings a piece of the galaxy far, far away into their daily lives. With its combination of utility and themed design, this droid stands as a testament to the innovative possibilities at the intersection of technology and entertainment.

Sources: The Verge, Engadget, Techeblog, WDW News Today

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