The artificial intelligence (AI) revolution initially began with autonomous driving technology in automobiles. Long before ChatGPT became a household name, major tech giants started integrating AI to replace human drivers and automate various driving tasks. This shift marked the beginning of a transformative era where machines increasingly perform roles traditionally held by humans.

Simultaneously, the development of humanoid robots equipped with advanced AI capabilities has brought us closer to a future where robots can operate seamlessly within our daily lives. Once these robots become widespread, it is anticipated that many jobs across various sectors will be displaced, leading to significant societal changes. Governments worldwide are aware of these possibilities and are proactively working to regulate this rapid technological advancement. They plan to implement laws and restrictions on robot deployment to prevent mass unemployment and social instability, aiming for a gradual integration rather than an abrupt upheaval.

However, in the long run, the number of sectors where humans are indispensable will diminish substantially. Many routine and complex tasks will increasingly be performed by robots. One such area that could be profoundly affected is automobile sales. Recognizing this potential, a Chinese automaker, Chery, has begun deploying AI-powered humanoid robots in their showrooms to assist with car sales and customer interactions.

In 2024, Chery established a dedicated robotics division and introduced a humanoid robot named AIMOGA. The name stands for “Artificial Intelligence with Multi-Objective Genetic Algorithms”. AIMOGA is capable of walking, understanding human speech, and responding in up to ten languages. According to Chery, this robot is equipped with a “human-like movement library that enhances interaction, providing a more natural and engaging experience for users.” Despite these impressive capabilities, AIMOGA still resembles a promotional tool rather than a fully autonomous, human-like robot capable of natural emotional responses or agile movements.

Nevertheless, it is undeniable that tech companies are relentlessly working to merge AI with humanoid robotics. In the near future, we can expect to encounter robots that are increasingly indistinguishable from humans, performing tasks and engaging with us in ways that blur the line between machine and person. This ongoing evolution promises to reshape many industries, including automotive sales, and redefine our understanding of human-robot interaction.

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Innovative Robot Race Breaks New Ground in Human-Robot Collaboration

China recently organized a groundbreaking event, heralded as the world’s first half marathon designed specifically for humanoid robots. This unique race allowed two-legged robots to compete alongside human runners, marking a significant milestone in robotics and AI integration. Throughout the race, robots operated with human operators, working together to complete a challenging 20-kilometer course.

The competition was intense and filled with unforeseen challenges. Many robots encountered technical difficulties: one fell right at the start line, another’s head dropped off and rolled away, while others collapsed or shattered during the race. Despite these setbacks, the event showcased the impressive capabilities and resilience of modern humanoid robots. The videos capturing these moments have captivated viewers worldwide, highlighting both the progress and the hurdles in robotics development.

The Race Details and Robot Performances

A total of 21 robots participated, with the leading contender being Tiangong Ultra, a humanoid robot standing approximately five feet ten inches tall. Remarkably, it was one of only four robots to reach the finish line within the allotted time. The organizers permitted team members to change robot batteries during the race, and some robots underwent multiple battery swaps—up to three times—demonstrating the logistical complexity involved.

Moreover, the race rules allowed for the replacement of malfunctioning robots with backup units mid-race. Despite these efforts, the robots finished the course at a surprisingly slow pace. The fastest robot completed the 20 km distance in approximately two hours and forty minutes, which is more than twice the time it takes an average human marathon runner. This underscores that, although humanoid robots are making strides, they are still far from matching human speed and agility.

Current Limitations and Future Prospects

It’s evident that, without direct human intervention—such as an operator standing nearby to assist or control—the robots would struggle to complete the course on their own. However, experts agree that, with ongoing advancements, humanoid robots are expected to become significantly faster and more autonomous in the near future. This event not only highlights the current state of robotics technology but also paves the way for future innovations that could see robots running alongside humans in marathons and other endurance events.

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