China Challenges Humans with Humanoid Robots in Half Marathon Showdown [English]

Source: Jowhar | Author: Not Specified | Read the full article in English

In a groundbreaking event, China recently hosted a unique half-marathon that featured humanoid robots running alongside human participants. Twenty-one robots from various Chinese tech companies participated in the 21-kilometer race in Beijing, showcasing the latest advancements in robotic technology. These robots came in different sizes, with some standing as short as 120 cm and others reaching up to 1.8 meters tall.

The race was more than just a sporting event; it was a complex technological demonstration that required extensive preparation and support. Human trainers accompanied the robots, often providing physical assistance during the race. Some robots were equipped with running shoes, and one even wore a headband with a motivational Chinese message. The standout performer was the Tiangong Ultra robot, which completed the race in 2 hours and 40 minutes, significantly slower than the human winner's time of 1 hour and 2 minutes.

Not everything went smoothly during the race. Some robots encountered significant challenges, with one falling at the starting line and another colliding with a railing, causing its human operator to trip. Despite these setbacks, the event represents China's ambitious efforts to push the boundaries of robotics and create new economic opportunities in cutting-edge technological industries. The race highlighted both the potential and current limitations of humanoid robots in performing complex physical tasks.

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