Real-life Transformer: Giant robot on sale in China for $650K

Hollywood movies featuring giant robots piloted by humans are gradually becoming reality. Chinese robotics company Unitree Robotics has unveiled an unusual transforming robot called the GD01 that can carry a human operator. The company posted a presentation video on its official YouTube channel and says the project is ready for mass production.

A transforming robot with a human pilot

The GD01 resembles a massive humanoid robot that stands more than twice the height of an average person. With a pilot inside, the machine weighs about half a ton. During the presentation, Wang Xingxing, founder and CEO of Unitree Robotics, was shown operating the robot.

The robot can transform while moving, switching between two-legged and four-legged modes. In the demonstration video, the GD01 also showcased impressive strength, smashing through a wall of concrete blocks with a single strike. The pilot sits inside a specially protected, cage-like cockpit.

Civilian use — for now

Unitree Robotics describes the GD01 as a civilian vehicle, although its appearance inevitably brings to mind science-fiction battle machines from Hollywood films. The company says the robot starts at about $650,000.

Another unusual Unitree project

Kursiv.media previously reported on another Unitree Robotics creation. A robot named Gabi was ceremonially ordained as a Buddhist monk.

During the event, the robot bowed, folded its hands in prayer and recited Buddhist vows alongside human monks.