Genoa, Italy, October 21 2009 - The New ASIMO is travelling to Italy this Friday to appear at the Genoa Science Festival. This is the first time the latest version of Honda's humanoid robot has been to Italy and will spend 10 days in the country's historic northern city.

The theme for this year's festival is ‘the future', with ASIMO acting as a high profile example of the type of technology that might be commonplace in our society in 10 to 20 years time.

During the festival ASIMO will be appearing in a number of fast-paced and engaging shows, allowing the festival's visitors to see its range of current cutting-edge abilities first hand.

Commenting on ASIMO's visit, Manuela Arata, President of the Genoa Science Festival, said:

"This year's festival explores the exciting concept of ‘the future'; an imaginary place that becomes reality through hard work and imagination.

This philosophy is no stranger to Honda's engineers, who have worked continuously since 1986 to achieve their own vision of the future; a future where humanoid robots help people in their everyday lives.

We, and our main sponsor Hofima, are delighted to welcome the latest generation of this fascinating research project to the Genoa Science Festival and we are sure it will thrill the visitors of this year's festivities."

The Genoa Science Festival is now in its seventh year and consists of hundreds of events including exhibitions, workshops, interactive displays, live shows and music. It runs from 23rd October to the 1st November 2009.

ENDS