California highway covered in melted chocolate

A California highway was left in a sweet and sticky state after a truck fire caused the roadway to become covered in more than 30,000 pounds of melted chocolate.

The California Highway Patrol said firefighters were summoned to the scene on westbound Interstate 580, near Grant Line Road in the Dublin area. Crews were able to extinguish the flames engulfing the truck, but by then the vehicle’s cargo — 30,000-40,000 pounds of chocolate — had melted and was spreading across the road.

The clean-up operation lasted several hours. Initial investigations indicated the cause of the fire was a mechanical issue with the truck’s brakes. The driver was able to escape the truck and no injuries were reported.

Star1: World’s fastest humanoid robot

Chinese company Robot Era has introduced Star1, the fastest bipedal robot, reaching speeds of 8 mph (12.98 km/h). Powered by high-torque motors, AI algorithms and human running shoes for enhanced grip, Star1 efficiently navigates various terrains like sand and grass.

Standing 5.6 feet tall and weighing 143 pounds, it surpasses robots like Tesla’s Optimus and Boston Dynamics’ Atlas. Videos of Star1 running in the Gobi Desert recently went viral, showcasing its advanced speed and running mechanics.

AI-powered spherical patrol robot is here

Chinese robotics firm Logon Technology has introduced the RT-G, an AI-powered spherical patrol robot now seen patrolling streets alongside human law enforcement.

Capable of operating on land and water at speeds up to 35 km/h, the robot can detect disturbances, identify criminals using facial recognition, and immobilise suspects with a built-in net gun. Initially met with mixed reactions online, the RT-G is now being tested in urban environments, showcasing China’s push for AI-driven law enforcement technology.

Artist creates stunning 3D LEGO portraits

Gerardo Pontiérr, a Mexican artist, crafts intricate 3D portraits using thousands of LEGO bricks. A LEGO enthusiast since childhood, Pontiérr became a World Champion LEGO Builder by age 10. After a career as a violinist, he returned to LEGO during the pandemic, creating ground-breaking works like a functional LEGO violin and 3D wall-mounted portraits. His unique style blends pixelised fonts with protruding LEGO elements, captivating contemporary art lovers.

Working with 65 colours and sourcing rare pieces globally, Pontiérr spends months on each artwork, which are in high demand among collectors. He aims to become the first certified LEGO artist in Latin America.

Published in Dawn, Young World, January 18th, 2025