A new fuel cell-powered robot is under development by Japanese scientists.

Sohgo Security Services says it is making good progress on its plans for the automaton, which would be capable of running without interruption for one week.

Senior researcher Takao Ariki said that the work was now nearly finished: "Technically, we have almost completed the robot."

"We will be the world's first company to produce and market a robot with a fuel cell battery."

Building on an existing lead battery-based model, Guard-Robo C-4, the new robot uses a fuel cell to dramatically extend its life.

Yuasa has built the fuel cell stack used in the package, with the robot also being capable of using a fire extinguisher and firing a paintball gin.

However, Sohgo Security says the robot, which will be showcased at the next ROBODEX exhibition in Yokohama, will categorically not "have the capability of attacking human beings".