After producing the BB-8 replica for the seventh episode of the Star Wars saga, Sphero returns to produce an interesting gadget for the launch of the third episode of Cars, a Disney animation movie that will be in theaters in September.
The gadget could only be dedicated to Saetta McQueen, the protagonist of the series, loved by children and young adults for his liking. The machine can be fully controlled through Android or iOS smartphones, within a 30-meter radius, and with an autonomy of about 40 minutes at a top speed of just over 10 kilometers per hour.
Until now, there would be nothing strange, not even mentioning the front and rear lights that light up. Particular things begin with the windshield, which is actually a 320 x 120 pixel LCD display that can show Saetta McQueen’s eyes, allowing various expressions that change depending on the situation.
There is also a lack of independent suspension, which allows the machine to move by reacting to touches but the real piece is the mouth. Made of soft and deformable plastic that also provides good resistance to frontal impact, it is synchronized with the character’s voice for a truly realistic effect.
There are over 300 phrases that will be used to suit the situations in which the machine is to be found. Six animation motors were used, one for the mouth and five for suspension and movement. The robotic version of Saetta McQueen produced by Sphero will be sold in the summer also in our country at an indicative price of 349 euros.
