The Race Dynamics

The humanoid robots, created by various Chinese manufacturers including Droid VP and Noetix robotics, ranged in height from 120 centimeters (3.9 feet) to 1.8 meters (5.9 feet). One company highlighted their robot’s near-human qualities, emphasizing its feminine appearance and a wink and smiling ability.

Prior to the race, many companies conducted intensive testing on their robots. Beijing officials likened the event to a race car competition, noting the necessity of both an engineering team and a navigation team.

One spectator, Hershu, who works in artificial intelligence, remarked, The robot works very well and stable. It seems to be witnessing the evolution of robots and AI.

Challenges and Triumphs

Human trainers accompanied the robots during the race. Some robots even required physical assistance from their handlers. The robots sported various accessories; some wore sneakers, one had a boxing glove, and another donned a red headband in the Chinese style.

The winning robot, Tiangong Ultra, developed by the Beijing Innovation Center of Human Robotics, completed the half marathon in 2 hours and 40 minutes. In comparison, the fastest human runner finished in 1 hour and 2 minutes.

however, not all robots fared as well. One robot fell at the starting line and remained immobile for several minutes before resuming the race. Another robot collided with the railings after only a few meters, requiring assistance from a worker.

Technological Prowess and Future Aspirations

This event marks the first time humanoid robots in China have raced alongside humans in a marathon. The Chinese government anticipates that investments in high-tech industries like robotics will stimulate economic growth.

Tang Jian, chief technology officer of the Beijing Innovation Center of Human Robotics, stated, Tiangung Ultra’s performance is thanks to algorithms that can imitate long legs and human marathon. He further added, I don’t want to boast, but I think any Western robot company was not comparable to the sports achievements of Tian Palace.

The Beijing Human Robotics Innovation Center is partly owned by two state-owned companies,Xiaomi’s robot division,and UBTECH,a leading humanoid robot company in China.

Skepticism and Perspectives

despite the enthusiasm, some experts question the reliability of robot marathons as indicators of real industrial potential. Alan Fern, a professor of computer science, artificial intelligence, and robotics at Oregon State University, noted that the software enabling humanoid robots to run was developed and demonstrated five years ago.

Chinese companies have focused on showing off agility such as walking, running, and dancing. In general, these are fascinating demonstrations, but they do not show much about the practicality of useful work or any type of basic intelligence.

Alan Fern,Professor at Oregon State University

In response,the CTO of the robot center emphasized,We will focus on the future,which is to apply industrial applications so that humanoid robots can actually be put into the factory,business surroundings,and finaly in the home.

Broader Implications

This competition highlights China’s ambition to lead in advanced technology. Humanoid robot technology integrates artificial intelligence, sensors, batteries, and motors. The Chinese government is actively promoting manufacturing innovation and economic growth in this sector.

However, experts caution that a significant gap remains between current robot technology and its practical submission in industry. Key challenges include improving stability, durability, and energy efficiency.

Still, the event symbolizes the rapid progress of robot technology in China and has drawn global attention to China’s potential in the robot industry [[1]].