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Walker S2 humanoid robot can change its own battery pack, hints possibility of self-sustaining bots

It’s part of my daily exercise routine: stretching both arms back and trying to join my hands in a ‘namaste’ pose. I’ve been at it for years, still trying every day to perfect it. In China, however, this robot can not only do it effortlessly, but can also remove and swap the integrated battery pack in its back. Woof! Where is the world headed?

Robots have started imitating our emotions; they can fight, and now, with the new Walker S2, the world’s first humanoid robot capable of autonomous battery swapping, they’re also becoming self-reliant. If the progress continues at this pace and robots become fully self-sustaining, we may be headed into a future where robots will be doing everything. Let’s just hope they don’t enslave us or raise us like pets, then.

Designer: UBTech Robotics

UBTech’s humanoid robot, Walker S2, is described by the company as “a new milestone for industrial domains.” Sure thing, but when such trained robots with additional brains (AI) leave the labs and rush into our everyday life, it is an uncertainty we are not ready to brave just yet, or perhaps, never will be!

That said, let’s not take anything away from the incredible feat achieved by UBTech. The Chinese robotics company has long established itself as a leader in integrating humanoids with emotional intelligence. Una for instance. Now, Walker S2 is taking that to a new level, with complete autonomy. Which means that the robot does not rely on a human operator to remove and replace its battery pack, instead, it can walk up to a battery charging station, remove a drained pack from its back, and swap it with a fully charged battery from the station. No assistance whatsoever.

With its efficiency and self-reliance, the Walker S2 is ideally developed for factories. It is compatible with Wi-Fi, Bluetooth and has a fisheye camera with 3D stereoscopic vision integrated in the head. This is accompanied by movable joints in the hands, arms and knees. This humanoid stands 5 feet 3 inches tall, weighs 43 kg, and can ferry loads in its strong arms, working almost 24/7. Its gait may be a little comic, but you dare not laugh at it on the face.

Coming to the most decisive aspects: it comprises a 48-volt lithium battery in a dual-battery system. The entire pack can power the robot for four hours (standing). It can walk approximately two hours on a full charge. Walker S2 is capable of identifying when either of the two batteries is running low and needs swapping. As shown in its demo video; in that case, the robot walks calmly to its designated battery charging station, turns around, extends its arms to its back and pulls out the dying battery. It can deftly slot the removed battery into the vacant slot in the charging station and remove a fully charged battery out of the station and attach it in the vacant slot at its back. All ever so conveniently. The removed battery takes 90 odd minutes to fully charge.

The post Walker S2 humanoid robot can change its own battery pack, hints possibility of self-sustaining bots first appeared on Yanko Design.

Why The 2-Bedroom Gunyah Feels Like a ‘Tiny Home’, Not Just a ‘Tiny House’ – Space-Saving Design & Comfort

Australia’s Häuslein Tiny House Co. has created something truly special with the Gunyah – a 16.5-foot marvel that breaks down your beliefs about space efficiency. The home was designed with thought and consideration, creating a livable environment that accommodates up to four people within an impossibly compact footprint. The birch ply interior feels warm and inviting, while the engineered wood and metal exterior presents clean, uncomplicated lines that catch attention wherever it travels. At 2.85 tonnes, the home remains light enough for regular towing, making it genuinely mobile rather than just theoretically portable.

The spatial choreography inside is truly commendable. The living room anchors the design with a comfortable sofa and wall-mounted television, creating a genuine gathering space rather than a cramped afterthought. When needed, this area transforms to accommodate a double bed, showcasing the flexibility that makes small spaces work. Above, a loft bedroom accessed by a removable ladder provides the primary sleeping quarters, while the compact kitchen delivers full functionality with dishwasher, induction cooktop, refrigerator, and sink.

Designer: Häuslein Tiny House Co.

The optional porch is the most intelligent design decision in the home, instantly expanding the living area when stationary. This covered outdoor space effectively doubles the usable square footage, creating seamless indoor-outdoor flow that makes the interior feel significantly larger. The porch transforms what could feel like a cramped cabin into an expansive retreat, making the Gunyah feel like a ‘tiny home’ rather than a ‘tiny house’.

The space includes a removable ladder that doesn’t permanently consume floor space, and multiple layout configurations that adapt to different needs. The off-grid capabilities mean genuine independence, while the stable towing characteristics ensure reliable transportation between locations. These aren’t luxury features but essential elements that make the concept work in practice. The attention to practical details reveals a deep understanding of how people live, not just how they think they want to live.

The Gunyah exceptionally adopts minimalism without sacrificing comfort, forming spaces that feel generous despite their compact dimensions. Natural light floods the interior through carefully positioned windows, while the timber finishes add warmth that prevents the space from feeling clinical or temporary. The kitchen’s full-size appliances deliver solid cooking capabilities in a space smaller than most closets.

Priced at around US$72,000,  the Gunyah offers excellent value for a complete, mobile living solution. This price point makes tiny house living accessible while maintaining the build quality and design integrity that define successful compact architecture. This compact masterpiece is a perfect choice for those seeking real and comfortable alternatives to traditional housing. It provides everything you could need for a cozy and efficient living within a footprint that seemed impossible until now.

FAQs

1. Can a tiny house have two bedrooms?

Yes, a tiny house can have two bedrooms. This is usually achieved by:

Creating a main-floor bedroom and a loft bedroom above.
Designing two lofts at opposite ends of the home.
Using convertible or partitioned living spaces for flexible sleeping arrangements.

Two-bedroom layouts are popular for families, guests, or those wanting a home office. The trade-off is that each bedroom will be compact, and living space may be more limited compared to single-bedroom designs. The Gunyah offers a loft bedroom and a main living area that can convert into a second sleeping space, balancing privacy and flexibility within a compact footprint.

2. How much does a 2-bedroom tiny house cost in the US?

The cost of a 2-bedroom tiny house in the US typically ranges from $60,000 to $120,000, depending on factors like size, materials, finishes, and whether it’s custom-built or purchased as a pre-designed model. Premium models with high-end interiors, off-grid capabilities, or luxury features can reach the upper end of this range. The Häuslein Gunyah is a well-designed, compact home with quality finishes and flexible layouts, priced around USD 72,000. Costs can also vary based on location, labor, and whether the home is built on a foundation or trailer.

3. What are the best space-saving design ideas for tiny homes?

The most effective space-saving design ideas for tiny homes include:

Convertible furniture (sofas that become beds, fold-out tables, Murphy beds).
Lofted bedrooms to free up main floor space for living and dining.
Built-in storage under stairs, beds, and seating.
Sliding doors instead of swing doors to save floor area.
Multi-functional zones (e.g., a living room that doubles as a guest room).
Open shelving and vertical storage to maximize wall space.

The Gunyah tiny home, for instance, features a living area that transforms into a sleeping space, a removable ladder for the loft, and clever storage solutions throughout, demonstrating how thoughtful design can make a small footprint feel generous and functional.

The post Why The 2-Bedroom Gunyah Feels Like a ‘Tiny Home’, Not Just a ‘Tiny House’ – Space-Saving Design & Comfort first appeared on Yanko Design.

Tesla Diner & Drive-In: How Hollywood’s Most Futuristic Restaurant Blends Retro Charm with Electric Innovation

Tesla’s first-ever diner has officially opened its doors in Hollywood, California. The Tesla Diner & Drive-In at 7001 Santa Monica Boulevard represents more than just another restaurant; it’s a carefully crafted destination that merges nostalgic 1950s aesthetics with cutting-edge electric vehicle infrastructure.

Designer: Tesla

Located just steps from Hollywood’s famous Walk of Fame, this unique venue combines three distinct experiences under one futuristic roof. The facility serves as a full-service restaurant, a drive-in movie theater, and one of the world’s most advanced Supercharger stations. After years of construction and anticipation, the venue opened to the public on July 21, 2025, at 4:20 PM, marking a new chapter in Tesla’s expansion beyond automotive manufacturing.

Architectural Marvel Meets Retro Design

The building’s exterior immediately commands attention with its sleek, curved metallic facade. Designed by architecture firm Stantec, the two-story, 9,300-square-foot structure creates a striking visual contrast against the urban Hollywood landscape. The facility features approximately 3,800 square feet of enclosed lower-level dining space and 5,500 square feet of outdoor seating and food preparation areas. The circular design elements and flowing lines pay homage to mid-century futurism while incorporating Tesla’s minimalist design philosophy.

During daylight hours, the building’s polished metal surfaces reflect the California sun. The structure appears to float above the charging stations below, supported by sleek pillars that maintain the building’s weightless aesthetic. Large glass panels wrap around the building’s perimeter, offering diners panoramic views of the bustling Santa Monica Boulevard. The most eye-catching feature becomes apparent after dark when the building transforms into a neon-lit beacon.

Vibrant red and blue LED strips trace the building’s curves, while the iconic “TESLA DINER” sign glows in electric blue lettering. This lighting scheme creates a dramatic nighttime presence that can be seen from blocks away, establishing the venue as a true Hollywood landmark. The building’s rooftop terrace adds another layer of architectural interest, featuring an open-air dining space with panoramic views. From this elevated position, guests can see the famous Hollywood sign in the distance while enjoying their meals. The rooftop design incorporates both covered and uncovered seating areas, allowing for year-round outdoor dining in Los Angeles’ favorable climate.

Tesla has created what many are calling one of the coolest spots in LA. Elon Musk himself praised the team’s work after dining there personally, posting on social media that the team “did great work making it one of the coolest spots in LA!”

Interior Design: Where Past Meets Future

Step inside the Tesla Diner and you’re immediately transported into a world where 1950s nostalgia collides with 21st-century innovation. The interior design masterfully balances retro diner elements with Tesla’s signature modern aesthetic. The main dining floor features classic diner booth seating upholstered in rich red vinyl, reminiscent of the golden age of American roadside dining.

Chrome accents and checkerboard floor patterns reinforce the vintage theme. Modern LED lighting systems create a warm, inviting ambiance throughout the space. The color palette primarily consists of Tesla’s signature red, white, and black, with strategic pops of electric blue that tie into the brand’s visual identity.

Counter-style seating along the exterior windows allows guests to watch the bustling activity of the Supercharger stations below. The interior features neon lighting that adds to the retro appeal, creating an authentic diner atmosphere that feels both nostalgic and fresh. Bar stools positioned at strategic locations provide additional seating options while maintaining the classic diner aesthetic. The space includes both indoor dining areas and the rooftop terrace, offering guests multiple environments to choose from based on their preferences. One of the most talked-about features of the dining experience is the staff’s commitment to authenticity, with servers gliding around the restaurant on roller skates.

This attention to detail demonstrates Tesla’s commitment to creating an immersive experience that goes beyond simply serving food. The roller-skating servers bring back a classic element of American diner culture that disappeared decades ago, adding an authentic touch that delights visitors and creates memorable photo opportunities.

Supercharger Station: The Heart of the Experience

At its core, the Tesla Diner serves as one of the world’s most advanced charging destinations. The facility features 80 V4 Supercharger stalls, making it one of the largest Supercharger installations in the United States.

These aren’t ordinary charging stations; they represent Tesla’s latest technology, capable of delivering faster charging speeds than previous generations. The charging experience integrates seamlessly with the dining and entertainment offerings, allowing Tesla owners to plug in their vehicles and immediately access the restaurant’s services without worrying about monitoring their charging progress. The charging stations are strategically positioned to provide easy access to both the restaurant and the drive-in movie screens. Each charging stall is equipped with the latest V4 Supercharger technology, which can handle higher power delivery rates and accommodate a wider range of electric vehicles.

The installation represents a significant investment in charging infrastructure, positioning the location as a destination rather than just a quick stop. The integration of charging, dining, and entertainment creates a unique value proposition for electric vehicle owners. Instead of viewing charging as a necessary interruption to their journey, guests can transform it into an enjoyable experience that combines multiple activities in one convenient location.

Drive-In Movie Experience: Entertainment While You Charge

The Tesla Diner’s drive-in movie theater features two massive 45-foot LED screens that dominate the charging area. These aren’t traditional movie screens; they’re high-resolution LED displays capable of showing crystal-clear images even in bright daylight conditions. The screens primarily show short films and presentations, with content specifically curated for the charging experience.

What sets this drive-in apart from traditional movie theaters is the seamless integration with Tesla vehicles. Audio from the screens syncs directly to the car’s sound system, eliminating the need for traditional speaker setups that characterized old-fashioned drive-ins. Tesla owners can adjust the volume to their preference and enjoy high-quality audio without disturbing neighboring vehicles. The content strategy focuses on shorter presentations rather than full-length movies, recognizing that most charging sessions last 30-45 minutes.

This approach ensures that guests can enjoy complete entertainment experiences during their typical charging time. The screens also display Tesla-related content, including promotional materials and educational information about the company’s various products and services. Initial programming includes classic content like “The Jetsons,” which reinforces the retro-futuristic theme of the entire venue. From the rooftop terrace, guests can enjoy an elevated view of both movie screens while dining. This vantage point provides a unique perspective on the drive-in experience and offers clear views of the Hollywood sign in the distance. The combination of dining, charging, and entertainment creates a multi-layered experience that transforms a utilitarian activity into something memorable.

Culinary Offerings: Classic American Fare with Tesla Touches

The Tesla Diner’s menu pays homage to classic American diner fare while incorporating subtle nods to the company’s identity. The food offerings include traditional favorites like burgers, fries, chicken wings, hot dogs, and hand-spun milkshakes. The menu also features egg sandwiches, hash brown bites, grilled cheese, tuna melts, and fried chicken with waffles, providing options for different tastes and dietary preferences.

One of the most distinctive aspects of the dining experience is the presentation. Food is served in custom Cybertruck-inspired containers that mirror the angular design language of Tesla’s electric pickup truck. These unique food boxes have become a talking point among visitors and represent Tesla’s attention to detail in creating a cohesive brand experience. The Tesla Burger serves as the signature menu item, priced at $13.50 and described as a “juicy diner-style burger with smashed, crunchy edges made from ⅓ lb. prime Brandt Beef with New School American cheese, lettuce, caramelized onions, pickles, and Electric Sauce on a Martin’s Potato Roll.”

Hot dogs are available for $13, while egg sandwiches cost $12, hash brown bites are $8, and grilled cheese is $9. The pricing reflects the restaurant’s position as a destination dining experience rather than a quick-service establishment, with sides ranging from $4 to $15. Hand-spun milkshakes add to the authentic diner experience, prepared using traditional methods that create the thick, creamy texture associated with classic American diners. The beverage selection includes various soft drinks and specialty “Charged Sodas” that contain natural caffeine. The culinary team is led by Chef Eric Greenspan, a Los Angeles chef known for running ghost kitchens and creating elevated versions of diner classics that meet modern quality standards while maintaining authentic flavors.

Technology Integration: Robots and Innovation

The Tesla Diner showcases the company’s broader technology portfolio beyond electric vehicles. During the pre-opening event, an Optimus humanoid robot was spotted serving popcorn to guests, demonstrating its distinctive movements and captivating visitors with immersive interactions. While current operations rely primarily on human staff, the presence of robotics technology suggests Tesla may experiment with automated service in the future. The robot’s appearance generated significant buzz among visitors, who were eager to interact with Tesla’s humanoid technology in a real-world setting.

Tesla vehicle owners can potentially order food directly from their car’s touchscreen, creating a streamlined experience that eliminates traditional ordering processes. This integration shows Tesla’s vision of creating connected experiences that span multiple aspects of customers’ lives. Digital displays throughout the restaurant provide information about charging status, menu items, and entertainment options.

The facility operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week, making it one of the few round-the-clock dining options in the Hollywood area. This operational schedule aligns with Tesla’s commitment to providing convenient charging access at all hours. Staff members use tablet-based ordering systems that sync with the kitchen and charging station management, ensuring smooth operations around the clock. Late-night visitors can enjoy the full dining experience while their vehicles charge, making it a convenient stop for travelers at any hour. The technology infrastructure supports both restaurant operations and charging station management, creating a unified system that enhances the customer experience. Tesla’s Hollywood Diner goes beyond just a restaurant or charging station; it’s a proof of concept for how the company envisions the future of transportation, dining, and entertainment converging into integrated experiences.

The post Tesla Diner & Drive-In: How Hollywood’s Most Futuristic Restaurant Blends Retro Charm with Electric Innovation first appeared on Yanko Design.

Plant-Based Reusable Bottle Sets a New Standard for Sustainability

We’ve all been there, standing in a convenience store, thirsty and faced with rows of single-use bottles. Glass feels heavy and expensive, aluminum still has plastic linings, and regular plastic bottles make you wonder what chemicals might be leaching into your water. It’s frustrating when even the eco-friendly options come with their own environmental baggage and compromises.

Enter Anew, a New Zealand company that decided to completely rethink what a water bottle could be. Instead of tweaking existing materials or adding green marketing to the same old products, they went back to basics and asked a simple question: what if we made bottles from plants instead of petroleum?

Designer: Jayden Klinac (Founder, Anew)

The result looks and feels exactly like regular plastic, but it’s made entirely from renewable plant materials. The clever part is how these plants actually capture more carbon dioxide while growing than the manufacturing process releases. Every bottle produced removes 0.0765 pounds of CO2 from the atmosphere, making them genuinely carbon negative without any offsetting tricks.

What really impressed me about Anew’s approach is the thoughtful design decisions throughout. The entire bottle uses mono-material construction, meaning both the bottle and cap are made from the same plant-based plastic. No mixed materials that confuse recycling systems, no adhesive labels creating waste, and no compromise on the durability you expect from a quality reusable bottle.

The health benefits are equally compelling, especially given recent concerns about microplastics showing up everywhere in our bodies. Independent lab testing confirms these bottles don’t shed microplastics into your water, unlike many conventional plastic and even glass bottles. They’re also BPA-free, BPS-free, and PFAS-free, with proper food-safe certification under strict international standards.

Anew has created what they call a circular system around their bottles. You can reuse them for years, just like any good reusable bottle should work. When they eventually wear out, they’re fully recyclable in your regular curbside bin alongside standard plastic bottles. The company even offers collection points where returned bottles get recycled into new bottles.

Founder Jayden Klinac spent thirteen years developing sustainable packaging systems before launching Anew. His vision was refreshingly practical: keep all the benefits that make plastic useful while eliminating the environmental downsides. The bottles are lightweight, dishwasher safe, and built to handle daily use without breaking your budget or your back.

The bottles launched this year at Sprouts Farmers Market stores nationwide, filled with premium alkaline water from an ancient artesian source in New Zealand. Priced between eight and nine dollars, they’re positioned as affordable reusable bottles rather than expensive water, giving you an immediate alternative when you need hydration on the go.

When you compare Anew to other bottle materials, the advantages become obvious. Glass bottles have three times the carbon footprint, are heavy to transport, and rely on environmentally damaging sand mining. Aluminum bottles still need plastic linings and require massive energy for production. Traditional plastic comes from fossil fuels and rarely gets properly recycled.

What makes Anew special goes beyond just being another eco-friendly product. It shows how thoughtful design can solve complex environmental problems without asking consumers to sacrifice convenience, performance, or affordability. The bottles fit seamlessly into existing habits while delivering genuine environmental benefits that you can actually measure and verify.

The post Plant-Based Reusable Bottle Sets a New Standard for Sustainability first appeared on Yanko Design.

Faraday Future’s luxury-laden FX Super One minivan EV has an interactive front face

Faraday Future has not had a smooth run in its over a decade of existence, owing to production delays and, likely, an underperforming core management team. A good example of this is the 20 luxury FF 91 EVs sold in just two years since its debut. The Los Angeles-based EV startup wants to resurrect that with their latest reveal, the FX Super One MPV targeted at the high end of the luxury segment. The vehicle is revealed under the sub-brand Faraday X, which signifies a renewed approach for the company.

The luxury EV targeted for the American market reminds me of the Great Wall Motors Way Gaoshan. This Multi-Purpose Vehicle is the brand’s attempt to make a foothold in the American market with a sub-$100,000 price (most likely around $70,000) to disrupt the Cadillac Escalade dominance when it comes to luxury for-hire commuting. Faraday X is primarily focused on the “Artificial Intelligence Electric Vehicle” (AIEV) market, targeting “twice the performance at half the price.” The company has already received more than 10,000 early deposits for the electric minivan with $100 pre-order deposit, which is refundable.

Designer: Faraday X

FX Super One is powered by a dual-motor all-wheel drive system and comes with advanced AI tech adapted from the FF 91. This makes the MPV a blend of high-end comfort and futuristic intelligence. I can’t help but imagine this one being a good vehicle for your life on the road with some minor customizations and the needed accessories. Although there is no clarity on the horsepower, range, or other key specifications, the FX Super One will come in both a BEV and hybrid range extender variants for people who would want to use the MPV as their trusted commuter for extended trips. Another thing hinted by the maker is the availability of the EV minivan in four, six, or seven-seat variants to lure a diverse set of prospective buyers.

Everything set apart, the vehicle comes with a unique feature called F.A.C.E (Front AI Communication Ecosystem), which is an interactive digital display right where the grille is. The display employs speech recognition, reactive cues, and visuals to interact with the onlookers. It can throw smiles at you, display a fireplace in the quaint woods, or entertain your kids when everything else seems boring. The premium feel doesn’t stop there, as the Super One is loaded with fully reclining zero-gravity captain’s chairs (electronically adjustable) for leg support. On entering the rear section of the vehicle, you’ll be welcomed to a world of chauffeur-driven luxury with climate-controlled seats, ambient lighting, and fold-out tray tables. The four-seat GOAT edition is specifically targeted towards comfortable luxury and influential people.

The vehicle has an in-house EAI (Embodied AI Agent) system that runs voice, gesture, and visual input using a Vision-Language-Action (VLA) model that makes predictions and analyses in real time. This same tech is used for the F.A.C.E. display on the front grille and the infotainment system. Other added luxury perks include a central console with champagne holders, a panoramic moonroof, and 5G-enabled connectivity via the Faraday Super AP platform for power users.

The post Faraday Future’s luxury-laden FX Super One minivan EV has an interactive front face first appeared on Yanko Design.