Speeding humanity along its path toward domination by Skynet and the Terminators, Domino's New Zealand has introduced "the world's first autonomous pizza delivery vehicle."

Called DRU, or "Domino's Robotic Unit," bears more than a passing resemblance to the Fantastic Four's H.E.R.B.IE., complete with large "eyes" and a frozen "mouth."

"DRU has a passion for delivering piping hot meals and a nice warm smile to customers," Domino's assures nervous humans. "While he won't be taking to the streets tomorrow, he is enjoying his early progress as a prototype and giving customers a glimpse into the future of what is possible."

Standing about 3 feet tall, the four-wheeled robot has a compartment that can keep up to 10 pizzas warm, and sensors to help it avoid obstacles. DRU can make deliveries within a 12.5-mile radius of the store without having to be recharged. No date has been set to begin trials.

"DRU is cheeky and endearing and we are confident that one day he will become an integral part of the Domino’s family," said Scott Bush, general manager of Domino's New Zealand. "He's a road to the future and one that we are very excited about exploring further."

And so it begins ...