Self-driving slippers

Self-driving slippers. © Nissan.

Nissan has developed a nifty system that sends slippers to their rightful place at the entryway of a traditional Japanese inn (or ryokan) all by themselves, with the click of a button. Each slipper is outfitted with tiny wheels, a motor and sensors, which enables it to cross the floor using Nissan’s ProPilot Park technology. The car giant has also integrated the system into the inn’s tables and floor cushions, allowing guests to see autonomous furniture making its way across the floor. According to Nissan, their goal is “to entertain guests and reduce staff workload,” but it’s obviously being used to promote the company’s new Leaf vehicle, an all-electric, semi-autonomous car which uses the ProPilot driver assistance technology system. Points to Nissan for a creative marketing campaign.

⇨ The Verge, “Forget self-driving cars — these self-driving slippers are the future we deserve.”