SAN DIEGO, Oct. 16 -- Entertainment Robot America (ERA), a division of Sony Electronics Inc., announced today the release of AIBO Speed Board [ERA-201TP2], a software enabled, four-wheel scooter device that allows the robot to skate about its environment autonomously.

AIBO Speed Board will be available via the Web (http://www.us.aibo.com) and at select retail locations in mid-November. It will carry a manufacturer's suggested retail price of $249.

Additionally, compatible robot models, will also respond to voice commands, allowing owners to give AIBO directions, such as "turn left" or "turn right." Further, the robots can learn specific moves, which can then be repeated for its owner when prompted by voice command. When AIBO is not zipping around on its speed board it will randomly dance.

"With the holiday season upon us we thought that now was the perfect time to offer AIBO a toy of its own," said Victor Matsuda, ERA's vice president.
"AIBO fans have voiced a strong request for functionalities that showcase the robot's abilities. The speed board pushes the robot's entertainment capabilities to the extreme."

The AIBO Speed Board package includes a Speed Board, AIBO-ware software, a display stand, an adapter [ERS-210/ 210A] [ERS-220/220A] and three interchangeable handle grips that come in black, white and orange.