Chinese robotics start-up Unitree unveiled a humanoid robot named 'Superman' on August 17, 2026, showcasing unprecedented speed and jumping ability [1, 2]. The robot reached a top speed of 12.66 meters per second, surpassing Usain Bolt’s world record top speed of approximately 12.4 m/s recorded during his 9.58-second 100m sprint [1, 2]. Theoretically, at this speed, 'Superman' would complete the 100-meter dash in just 7.90 seconds [1].
In addition to its impressive sprint, the robot can leap vertically up to 2 meters, a feat notably higher than most human athletes [3, 1, 2]. The robot’s legs measure about 0.85 meters (2.8 feet), contributing to its agile locomotion [2]. However, compared to Unitree's earlier G1 model, ‘Superman’ displays a spindly-legged and somewhat ungainly running style despite its speed advantage [1].
Unitree, founded in Hangzhou in 2016, developed the 'Superman' robot in roughly three months [1, 2]. The company has shipped nearly 6,000 humanoid robots in the first half of 2026 and estimates having produced around 18,000 bipedal humanoid units in total [1, 2].
Unitree is preparing to go public with an initial public offering on August 19, 2026, on the Shanghai Stock Exchange STAR Market [1, 2]. The market debut follows closely on the heels of the 'Superman' prototype reveal.
The IPO and further product developments will be closely watched as Unitree seeks to leverage its rapid innovation cycle and expanding humanoid robot production capacity [1, 2].
