The world of humanoid robotics is heating up, and a new contender has emerged as the champion of speed. Robot Era, a Chinese robotics startup, has launched STAR1, a robot it claims is the fastest humanoid on the planet.
STAR1 has taken the title from previous speedsters like Tesla’s Optimus and Boston Dynamics’ Atlas, reaching a top speed of 8 miles per hour (13 km/h). This nimble robot stands at 5.6 feet tall and weighs approximately 143 pounds, surpassing even Unitree’s H1 robot, which previously held the record at 7.4 mph.
To demonstrate STAR1’s impressive speed and agility, Robot Era released a video showcasing two of these robots racing across the challenging terrain of China’s Gobi Desert. One robot was even given a pair of sneakers to see if it could gain an extra edge. The video highlights STAR1’s ability to navigate various surfaces, including paved roads, sand, and grassland, with remarkable ease. This robot reaches its top speed in about 30 seconds, showcasing its powerful motor system.
But STAR1 isn’t just a speed demon. It’s also a powerhouse of computing power. Built on AI hardware, STAR1 can process an astounding 275 trillion operations per second. That’s significantly faster than most modern laptops, which typically operate at between 45 and 55 trillion operations per second.
Adding to its impressive capabilities, STAR1 boasts 12 degrees of freedom, referring to its joints and range of motion. This allows for highly efficient movement and maneuverability. Its real-time decision-making abilities are further enhanced by high-speed communication modules, ensuring that it can instantly process environmental data and adapt to unpredictable terrains. This feature is crucial for maintaining stability at high speeds.
With STAR1 taking center stage, Robot Era has set a new bar in the race to create advanced humanoid robots. While Tesla’s Optimus and Boston Dynamics’ Atlas focus on different aspects of robotic development, STAR1’s unique blend of speed, mobility, and advanced AI could become the new standard for future innovations in the field. As humanoid robots continue to evolve, they are becoming more than just clever machines — they are fast becoming athletes too. The future of robotics is looking incredibly fast, and STAR1 is leading the charge.