Greater Noida (World Desk): China will host world’s first human-robot marathon in the Daxing district of Beijing in April 2025. The half-marathon will feature 12,000 human runners alongside anthropomorphic robots. It will showcase a unique integration of advanced robotics into sports.
The top three finishers will be awarded prizes, whether they are human or robot, reports the South China Morning Post (SCMP). Organised by the Beijing Economic-Technological Development Zone (also known as E-Town), the marathon will feature robots made by more than 20 companies. The first condition is that participants must look human-like and have a mechanical structure capable of walking or running on two legs — robots on wheels will not be allowed. According to the guidelines, the robots must be between 0.5 and 2 metres in height, with a minimum extension of 0.45 metres from hip to leg.
According to the SCMP reports, Both remote-controlled and fully autonomous robots are eligible, and operators can ensure their performance by replacing their batteries during the race.
Tiangong is the most anticipated participants in this game. It was developed by China’s Embedded Artificial Intelligence Robotics Innovation Center. It can run at an average speed of 10 kilometers per hour and has already attracted attention with its participation in the Yizhuang Half Marathon in Beijing last year. However, this event will be the first time a human-like robot will take part in the entire 21-kilometer race.
Robots are now available for every job
As china’s aging population is increasing and the workforce is decreasing, that’s why the country is investing more in robotics and automation to maintain economic growth. By the end of 2024, the data shows that China will have more than 310 million people aged 60 and more, which is 22% of the total population.
Apart from that, Robots are increasingly being used in caregiving roles, from emotional support to health monitoring and household services. In addition, China is increasing the use of robotics in industrial applications to combat its declining workforce, as it sees a decline in the workforce for the third consecutive year.
Growing robotics powerhouse
According to the International Federation of Robotics, China will install 276,288 robots in 2023, accounting for 51% of global installations. The country’s robotics industry is projected to grow to 400 billion yuan (about 54.6 billion USD) by 2030. Event organiser E-Town has already deployed humanoid robots in various industries, including manufacturing for electric vehicle maker BYD. The district has also hosted several conferences to promote advances in robotic technology. Following this marathon, Beijing will hold another event in August, where humanoid robots will compete in track and field events, soccer and other skill-based challenges.
