KAIST’s four-legged robot RAIBO2 completed a 42.195-km marathon in South Korea in 4:19:52 on one charge, using about 1,280 watt-hours. Researchers estimate a range of about 65 km per charge; that is a calculated figure, and actual range varies with conditions.
The run took place in November 2024 at the Sangju Dried Persimmon Marathon, on a course with two 50-meter climbs and slippery sections. KAIST designed RAIBO2 with lightweight legs, efficient joints and motor-driver circuitry to reduce energy losses. Its simulation-trained controller was designed to limit slipping, unnecessary motion and impact losses. The robot’s total cost of transport was 0.25, compared with the 0.37 human benchmark used by the researchers.
KAIST says RAIBO2’s per-charge range is more than three times that of existing quadruped robots and is targeting longer-duration work in mountainous and disaster areas. Its startup partner, RAION ROBOTICS Inc., is working toward products based on the technology; the marathon result does not establish readiness for every field deployment.
