Honda Motor Co. announced that its ASIMO (Advanced Step in Innovative Mobility) has officially retired after a 20-year service for the brand. Debuting in 2000, the humanoid robot has impressed many around the world with its human-like capabilities such as running, hopping on one leg, using sign language, and climbing stairs.
Honda ASIMO's Graduation Ceremony [Video: Robotech Buzz JAPAN by Kozaki]
A retirement ceremony for ASIMO was held earlier this month, giving the 4 ft. 3 in., 54 kg humanoid robot a proper send-off. The robot has not received system updates since 2018 as Honda is looking to divert its focus to developing more practical applications of its technologies.
One of the most significant moments for the retired robot was when it rang the bell to open the trading session at New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) in 2002. Together with Honda President Hiroyuki Yoshino, they waved their hands and were greeted with applause. It also conducted an orchestra in 2008 and even played soccer with then-U.S. President Barack Obama in 2014.
ASIMO at the New York Stock Exchange in 2002
Now that ASIMO is enjoying its retirement, Honda has been developing an avatar robot for more practical applications. It is said to follow assigned tasks and allows individuals to experience virtual things including the realistic sense of touching an object. This technology could be put to use in the 2030s.
Honda isn’t the only automaker to venture into artificial intelligence. Last year, Hyundai acquired Boston Dynamics to develop robotic products by sharing data and manufacturing expertise. The two parties aim to enrich the lives of people around the world by making businesses safer and more productive.
20 years of service for Honda [Photo: Robotech Buzz JAPAN by Kozaki]
For fans of ASIMO, they can still keep the character active as Honda will continue selling various merchandise based on the humanoid robot. ASIMO had a good 20-year run of demonstrating its intelligent abilities at Honda showrooms and around the world. In turn, the robot had contributed significantly to the Japanese automaker in developing technologies that will be used for innovation and advancement.
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