Fourier Intelligence Unveils GR-1 Humanoid Robot With Significant Payload Capacity
Chinese company Fourier Intelligence has introduced the GR-1 humanoid robot. The machine is designed to carry a substantial payload, approaching the body weight of an average android, according to reports from New Atlas. This capability places the GR-1 in the conversation about practical human assistive robotics for industrial and clinical settings.
Beyond cargo handling, the GR-1 is positioned to support patient care and physiotherapy in rehabilitation departments. In practical terms, patients can hold onto the robot during therapy sessions thanks to specially designed purple handles that provide secure handholds. This feature aims to facilitate safe assistive movement and steady support for individuals during rehabilitation exercises.
Standing at about 165 centimeters tall and weighing around 55 kilograms, the GR-1 is engineered for mobility with a top walking speed near 5 kilometers per hour. The joints of the robot are actuated by electric motors that drive smooth, coordinated motion, reminiscent of other advanced robotic platforms used in research and industry today. Such actuation enables adaptable movement across varied environments, from clinic floors to lab testbeds.
Fourier Intelligence has outlined a production plan that targets the end of 2023 for a first batch of 100 GR-1 units. The company confirms a payload capacity of up to 50 kilograms, enabling a range of assisted tasks from light lifting to supportive manipulation of objects in controlled settings.
The initial deployment of the first 100 GR-1 units is slated for research laboratories. In these facilities, robotics experts will work to expand the robot’s capabilities, integrating new functions and refining its performance. Development of the GR-1 has been ongoing since 2019, reflecting a persistent effort to translate research advances into practical robotic solutions for real-world use.
Historically, the concept of humanoid robots has sparked discussion about potential risks and the responsibility of designers to align technology with human values. The GR-1 represents a concrete step in moving humanoid robotics from theoretical exploration toward tangible applications that can assist people in daily activities and clinical environments. This evolution continues to be tracked by researchers and industry observers who evaluate how such machines can support health care, logistics, and rehabilitation tasks while maintaining safety and reliability for users and clinicians alike. Citations: New Atlas and Fourier Intelligence communications.