Humanoid robot ready for the challenge
Organized by the Beijing Economic and Technological Development Area (also known as E-Town), the marathon will showcase robots developed by more than 20 companies. The main requirement is that participants must be human-like and have a mechanical structure that allows bipedal walking or running. Robots on wheels are not allowed.
According to the guidelines, the robot should be between 0.5 and 2 meters high with a minimum hip-to-foot extension of 0.45 meters. Both remote-controlled and fully autonomous robots are eligible, and operators can change batteries during the race to ensure continued performance.
Tiangong: star participant
One of the most anticipated participants is “Tiangong”, a humanoid robot developed by China’s Embodied Artificial Intelligence Robot Innovation Center. Tiangon can run at an average speed of 10 kilometers per hour and previously attracted attention by participating in the Yizhuang Half Marathon in Beijing last year. However, this event marks the first time humanoid robots will compete in the entire 21-kilometre race.
China’s foray into humanoid robots is consistent with a broader strategy to address demographic challenges. With aging populations and shrinking workforces, countries are investing heavily in robotics and automation to maintain economic growth. Official data reveals that by the end of 2024, more than 310 million people in China will be over 60 years old, accounting for 22% of the population.
Robots are being deployed in caregiving roles, from providing emotional companionship to health monitoring and home services. Additionally, China is exploring robotics in industrial applications to combat a dwindling workforce, which has declined for the third consecutive year.
A growing robot powerhouse
In 2023, China will install 276,288 robots, accounting for 51% of the world’s installations, according to the International Federation of Robotic States. The country’s robot industry is expected to grow to 400 billion yuan (approximately 54.6 billion USD) by 2030. Event organizer E-Town has already deployed humanoid robots in various industries, including electric car giant BYD’s manufacturing. The district also held multiple conferences to promote advancements in robotics technology.
Following this marathon, Beijing is scheduled to host another event in August. There, humanoid robots compete in track and field, soccer, and other skill-based challenges.
