China’s Humanoid Robot Achieves Human-Like Straight-Knee Walk

The company said the advancement, described as China’s first demonstration of a "hybrid-architecture disturbance-resistant" gait, follows a major update in both hardware and software, according to Interesting Engineering.

In a video shared by Kepler, the K2 is shown walking steadily across bricks, plastic, and grass while keeping its balance when pushed. The robot also demonstrated its VLA+ training platform, which enables it to interpret natural-language commands and perform tasks, a step toward industrial and service applications.

According to PR Newswire Asia, the K2’s hybrid design combines roller screw linear actuators with rotary actuators in a series-parallel configuration, giving it reliable stability and efficiency across multiple tasks.

First deployed in April at the SAIC-GM automotive plant in Shanghai, the K2 represents a significant leap from its predecessor, the K1, with improved durability, dexterity, and intelligence, Fox News reported. It features reinforced limbs for easier maintenance, hands with 11 degrees of freedom, fingertip sensors for improved precision, and a battery capable of up to eight hours of continuous operation.

On the intelligence side, Kepler said the K2 leverages a cloud-based cognitive system for rapid learning, full-body coordination, and enhanced human-robot interaction. This allows it to operate independently while collaborating smoothly with human workers.

Kepler envisions wider applications for its humanoid robots beyond automotive manufacturing, including education, research, security, logistics, and hazardous outdoor work.

The company also highlighted cost efficiency, noting that at a price of US,000, the K2 can match or exceed the workload of multiple human employees.