Chinese humanoid robot kicks CEO down

In the video, Zhao Tongyang, founder and CEO of EngineAI, wears protective gear to test the power of the T800. Zhao narrowly avoided the first kick, but fell backwards upon receiving the second kick. When questioned by the staff, he commented that the kick was very strong and could have broken bones if he did not have protective gear.

The dangerous performance was intended to confirm the robot’s physical capabilities and respond to suspicions that the robot’s flexible movements in previous videos were manipulated with computer effects. With multiple angles, the video shows that the T800 is still standing firmly after the kick. The image attracted great attention, many viewers considered it impressive and daring, but some still believed that the kick was staged.

Last week, EngineAI shared a video of T800 breaking down doors, throwing fists and performing many difficult movements that require coordination of arms, legs and body such as jumping, kicking and turning. The flexibility and agility of the robot makes many viewers suspect that this is a product of a computer, not real footage. EngineAI quickly posted a behind-the-scenes video, in which staff filmed the robot performing both in the studio and outdoors. The company explains that the robot moves flexibly thanks to a joint torque of 450 Nm and 29 degrees of freedom.

While most competitors focus on industrial and logistics applications, EngineAI promotes robots with a “combat-ready” image and announces plans to organize robot tournaments. According to Humanoidsdailythe training session with the CEO will pave the way for EngineAI’s Robot Boxer event taking place on December 24.

The T800 is designed to move flexibly, endure and perform a variety of tasks, from hospitality services, logistics to coordination tasks. It uses a multi-sensor system including 360-degree Lidar, stereo camera, fast-response environment processor for obstacle detection and situational awareness, and can walk at a speed of three meters per second.

The T800 is 173 cm tall and weighs 75 kg including the battery, built from aviation-grade aluminum panels to balance sturdiness and light weight. A notable technical feature is the active cooling system integrated in the leg joints, allowing the robot to operate continuously at high intensity for up to 4 hours. Modular solid-state lithium batteries allow quick replacement and extend the robot’s operating time.