Toyota working on robo ute

Toyota has submitted new patents detailing the advanced assistance robots it is currently developing that could take the shape of a ute, scooter, drone or, even a jet-ski.

Designed specifically for a store like Bunnings, Toyota's new 'Home Improvement Store Autonomous Workhorse' will happily load up everything you can't fit into your car or truck and then autonomously follow you home to deliver your goods.

Toyota says the new droid-controlled vehicle could be powered by batteries, fuel-cells or even fossil fuels.

Interestingly, Toyota also says the experimental robo-assistant doesn't even have to be a truck and suggests it could also take the shape of a car, scooter, boat, jet-ski, aircraft or a golf cart.

The latter should make caddies particularly nervous as, thanks to a robotic arm, the handy Toyota assistant can not only shuttle you around the course but suggest clubs for you, without quietly judging your swing like a human caddy might.

Back in the DIY store, the autonomous vehicle could prove invaluable for a less able or elderly shopper, with the robot arm loading heavy objects into the cart.

Even payment could be through the droid, rather than having to queue at a counter.

Speaking to

This suggests that the Home Improvement Store Autonomous Workhorse could continue to be developed in partnership with a large retailer like Walmart or Ikea.

There's no indication of how long we'll have to wait before the useful little droid will be rolled out at a Bunnings store near you.