Robonaut 2, the next-generation humanoid robot being jointly developed by General Motors (GM) and NASA, at Houston’s Johnson Space Center, for use in automotive as well as aerospace industries, was unveiled on Thursday.

According to NASA, Robonaut 2 – to serve the purpose of a robot astronaut - is more dexterous, and more technologically-superior than its predecessor, which was developed a decade back by NASA and the Defense Advanced Research Project Agency.

Video clippings of the Robonaut 2, or R2, which boasting technologies jointly created by GM and NASA, reveal that the sleek humanoid robot can write; shake hands; and performing a number of other tasks like picking up an envelope and lifting heavy objects.

Talking about the GM-NASA alliance for developing the R2, Alan Taub, VP for global research and development at GM, said: “The partnership's vision is to explore advanced robots working together in harmony with people, building better, higher-quality vehicles in a safer, more competitive manufacturing environment.”

GM and NASA have collaborated earlier too on a few occasions, including their joint effort in developing the Lunar Roving Vehicle.

While GM intends using the latest robotic technology in the assembly plants as well as for developing potential applications in vehicle safety systems with advanced controls and sensors, NASA would likely use the technology for building machines that can help people work better and explore space.