Unitree Robotics unveils ‘Superman’ humanoid robot

Unitree Robotics has unveiled a new humanoid robot prototype named ‘Superman,’ claiming it can achieve a top running speed of 12.66 meters per second. This figure slightly exceeds the estimated peak velocity of 12.42 meters per second reached by Usain Bolt during his 2009 world record sprint. The company also claims the robot can perform a standing high jump of two meters.

During testing in preparation for the World Humanoid Robot Games in Beijing, a video of the robot’s performance went viral, showing the machine losing control. After sprinting at high speed, the robot failed to decelerate, veered off course, and crashed into safety equipment, resulting in visible damage and sparks emitting from its torso.

The incident highlights ongoing engineering challenges in humanoid robotics, specifically the difficulty of maintaining balance, direction, and stability at high velocities. While Unitree has established a significant market presence, with approximately 18,000 bipedal humanoids delivered by July 2026, the ‘Superman’ model remains an experimental work in progress developed over just three months.