The Chinese humanoid robot Unitree G1 demonstrated remarkable strength by manually pulling a 1,400-kilogram car in a test conducted by researchers at the Beijing Academy of Artificial Intelligence (BAAI). Despite weighing approximately 35 kilograms and standing 132 centimeters tall, the G1 model from the Chinese robotics company Unitree attracted attention by maneuvering this massive mass on level ground.
Humanoid robot pulls 1,400-kilogram vehicle
A video of the experiment was shared on BAAI’s official X account. The footage shows the G1 struggling to pull the car out of a parking space. The robot adopted a human-like stance, maintaining balance by slightly crouching.
The Unitree G1 maintained control throughout the entire process. This demonstrates the advancements made by its advanced dynamic balance system and AI-powered power transfer and balance algorithms.
The G1 was previously known for its ability to mimic human movements such as walking, jumping, and backflips. The robot’s latest performance showcased not only its agility but also its physical endurance.
However, experts note that the G1’s visually impressive performance still doesn’t fully measure up to real-world practical use, such as in everyday or industrial settings. According to experts, moving a 1.4-ton vehicle on a flat, hard surface doesn’t require as much force as one might think.
The determining factor in traction is not weight, but the coefficient of friction between the wheel and the ground. Therefore, humans can easily pull a similar vehicle by achieving the appropriate angle and balance.
Therefore, while the robot’s demonstration appears technically impressive, it isn’t a true test of high torque or traction. The experiment is more aimed at demonstrating the robot’s balance, force transfer, and movement coordination algorithms.
