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The waning year's advances in computer hardware and software, mechanical devices, sensors and artificial intelligence brought the world another step closer to the robotic future. Electric cars were a big hit in 2015. Most large manufacturers introduced higher mileage models; some, such as Honda, pushed for alternate energy sources. "We want to create a society that produces uses, and connects with hydrogen power," said the company's CEO, Tahakiro Hachigo. Self-driving vehicles were also getting closer to everyday use. Even an autonomous truck, built by Mercedes, demonstrated its ability to safely navigate on a busy highway. Wolfgang Bernhard, head of Daimler AG's trucks and buses division, showed how he could "take my hands off the wheel and, as you can see, the steering is smooth and the vehicle remains on track." 3-D printing ideas abound On another front, 3-D printing technology has emerged as a cheaper way of manufacturing almost anything – from pastries to cars. Divergent Microfactories, a startup company in Palo Alto, California, rolled out a 3-D printed chassis that weighs "only 102 pounds and has the same strength and safety protection as a frame made out of steel," chief designer Brad Balzer said. The 3-D technology soon could play a role in resolving the global housing shortage, said Ma Yihe, CEO of China's WinSun Decoration Design Engineering Co. | 
