this vehicle wouldn't look out of place as a character in a children's cartoon.

But it is actually the latest robotic security, and could soon be replacing manned guards at a factory near you.

The O-R3 is a four-wheeled security robot, designed to patrol large outdoor areas without human guidance.

It navigates by itself with array of sensors, including laser scanners and GPS.

But what if it's faced with an agile cat burglar who can escape over a fence?

This little machine has an answer, tucked away in a secret compartment:

a drone that can pursue intruders over difficult terrain.

OTSAW Digital says its machine uses advanced facial recognition technology,

and can tell the difference between authorized personnel and intruders.

The company's hoping to replace human security guards,

in its home country of Singapore, where the government is backing a drive to expand the use of robot in services.

But don't expect traffic jam of security robots anytime soon.

The O-R3 may be packed with the impressive technology,

but it also comes with a hefty price tag, $10,000 U.S. dollars a month.

Jeevan Vasagar, Financial Times, Singapore.