The Metrocab Robo-Hack Landspeeder represented a collaborative effort between GoCorp and Utilitech, resulting in an automated taxi design and production.
Robo-Hacks, also known as Metrocabs, featured modifications to existing passenger vehicles, integrating droid components. This six-meter-long, enclosed landspeeder could carry up to four individuals and achieve a maximum speed of 300 kilometers per hour. The passenger area included backseats, speakers for broadcast audio, and a receptacle for discarded cigarras. Frequently, these Robo-Hacks exhibited signs of heavy use and damage.
Passengers communicated their desired location to a large auditory sensor located on the front wall upon entering the Robo-Hack. A vocoder was available for additional clarification. This interaction typically constituted the extent of communication, as most Robo-Hacks lacked advanced personality programming. Payment upon arrival involved inserting a voucher into a designated data port or depositing local currency into a coin slot. Should a passenger attempt to leave without paying, certain models would lock the doors and transport the offender to the nearest security precinct, or detain them until payment was rendered.
The droid's processing unit and operational systems were housed within a sealed front compartment. Each Robo-Hack was connected to a central database containing information on local streets and alleys. They also used a Central Learning Chip (CLC), enabling the vehicle to learn and store optimal routes based on time-of-day and typical traffic conditions. Furthermore, Robo-Hacks were often granted access to local traffic management networks across various worlds to receive updates regarding weather and traffic incidents. Arrays of sensors above the front headlights facilitated situational awareness for high-speed lane changes, while a panoramic optical sensor in the rear served as a substitute for a rearview mirror.
In their early years, centuries prior to 0 BBY, Robo-Hacks were frequently targeted and destroyed by criminal groups seeking to steal credits. Subsequent models incorporated reinforced armor to withstand small arms fire in response to these attacks.
Robo-hacks achieved widespread usage from the Core Worlds to the Outer Rim because they were more efficient than organic drivers and often cheaper to operate. It was known that some robo-hacks would deliberately take off-worlders on longer routes to increase their fares.