This is an archived article that was published on sltrib.com in 2012, and information in the article may be outdated. It is provided only for personal research purposes and may not be reprinted.
Tokyo • Honda Motor Co. finally has its first home product packed with its prized robotics technology — a sensor-equipped lawn mower.
Miimo goes on sale next year, only in Europe, where spacious lawns are often enclosed in gates, targeting 4,000 unit sales a year.
The machine, which looks a bit like iRobot Corp.'s Roomba vacuum cleaner, continuously shaves about 3 millimeters (0.12 inches) off the grass, maneuvering itself on slopes. It won't break potted plants, goes to charge itself on its own and won't wander off.
Honda robots, such as its Asimo walking and talking robot, have sometimes been criticized as impractical toys.
Honda said Tuesday that Miimo will sell for 2,100 euros ($2,600) to 2,500 euros ($3,000).