Ask HN: Fun project:builing robot with camera and wifi

I am going to spend some spare time on building wifi controlled robot, that i can leave at home and access from anywhere over skype(for video calls) and web browser(for movement commands) I am thinking on putting old linux netbook with camera on toy car plaform, but i am stuck finding right toy and connecting its engine and steering with USB(?) port on laptop. Another problem is to build charging point where i can drive to for recharging. Anyone has any experience in this or car recommend something? I am software guy so building any complex hardware is a challenge for me