Riding Robot Qiji X1 Now Available for Purchase
- tech360.tv
- 1 hour ago
- 3 min read
Crowds at a recent World Robot Conference in Beijing observed a substantial dark grey robot. This machine occupied space equivalent to a large motorcycle. It moved via four mechanical legs. A rider occupied its saddle, gripping the handlebars. The device progressed in deliberate but unsteady steps, similar to a child learning to walk. This unit, named the Qiji X1, is now available for purchase.
DaxAI Robotics commenced operations in Beijing in May. According to Techeblog, Wang Kun, the organisation's founder, has spent over ten years working with robotics and vehicles that drive themselves, starting his career at JD.com. His co-founder and Chief Technology Officer, Xu Wenqiang, also contributes. Mr Xu previously attended the University of Science and Technology of China's talented student programme, later gaining an advanced degree in artificial intelligence. Their young team developed the Qiji X1 as a demonstration of concept for a mounted machine with four legs.
But this machine possesses considerable physical attributes. It weighs approximately 300 kilograms itself. The Qiji X1 is engineered to support an additional 300 kilograms, accommodating multiple average sized individuals without exceeding its capacity. Electric motors propel its legs. The estimated range on a single charge is roughly 40 kilometres, with a maximum speed of about 10 kilometres per hour. Its design prioritises effectiveness over pace.
The Qiji X1 functions in environments where wheeled vehicles typically falter. These include steep gradients, loose aggregates, and soft ground conditions. DaxAI Robotics markets the unit as an all terrain intelligent mount. It is intended for short journeys through wooded areas, open fields, or private estates. Control mechanisms are straightforward, mirroring those of a motorcycle.
The handlebars facilitate steering. An internal computer, identified as the DaxBrain WM system by industry techies, continuously calculates optimal foot placement. The programme operates independently, negating any requirement for a large, centralised computational link. The Qiji X1 performs various movements, including forward motion, lateral shifts, reversing, and stationary rotations. Video footage shows the machine's head moving rhythmically as it walks. This gives it an animal like appearance, though its movement on hard surfaces can seem abrupt.
And the company did not restrict its development to the X1 model. The Qiji XS offers an expanded capability. This variant features retractable wheels, which deploy for increased speed on smooth terrain. When conditions become challenging, the wheels retract, and the machine's legs assume propulsion. Its maximum speed reaches approximately 40 kilometres per hour, and it offers a range of about 100 kilometres. Pricing for the XS model is slightly higher than the X1.
The pure legged Qiji X1 is estimated to cost around 289,000 yuan, or approximately USD 43,000. DaxAI Robotics anticipates commencing small scale deliveries soon. Full scale manufacturing is projected for later this year. The organisation also presented the T1000, a larger machine configured for heavy lifting operations. Such tasks encompass search and rescue missions or moving substantial items across difficult landscapes.
So this rideable consumer version continues to generate considerable discussion. Its utility is being assessed. Experts question whether it represents a practical tool for remote expeditions, a luxury item for private landholders, or something in between these uses. The long term application remains to be seen. For now, the product exists, customers are engaging with it, and DaxAI Robotics is processing orders.
The Qiji X1 robot, resembling a motorcycle, operates on four mechanical legs.
DaxAI Robotics, founded by Wang Kun and Xu Wenqiang, developed the unit as an all terrain intelligent mount.
The Qiji X1 weighs 300 kilograms and can carry an additional 300 kilograms, offering a 40 kilometre range and a 10 km/h top speed.
A Qiji XS variant adds retractable wheels, increasing top speed to 40 km/h and range to 100 kilometres.
The pure legged Qiji X1 is estimated at USD 43,000, with deliveries expected to begin shortly.
Source: Techeblog
