Gasgoo Munich-Kepler Robotics debuted the "Mechanical Qilin" series of long-endurance, heavy-duty quadruped robots at the 2026 Zhangjiang Embodied AI Developer and Supply Chain Conference. This large-scale platform measures 2,175 x 800 x 1,630 mm and weighs approximately 300 kg. With a maximum load approaching one ton, the robot is designed for heavy-duty tasks such as in-plant material transfer, logistics, mountain transport, and emergency resupply.
Image Source: Kepler
The key differentiator of the Mechanical Qilin is its drivetrain. Kepler integrated its power chain — featuring self-developed planetary roller screw linear actuators designed for the K2 "Bumblebee" humanoid platform — into this quadruped architecture.
The screw drive offers advantages compared to traditional servo joints, which are prone to vibration and energy spikes under heavy loads, and hydraulic systems, which risk leakage and have limited temperature tolerance. This approach provides rigidity, preventing joint sag and chassis deformation. It also ensures controllable transmission efficiency, optimizing energy consumption. This enables a combination of capabilities challenging for the quadruped industry: heavy self-weight, high payload, and long endurance.
Image Source: Kepler
Official figures indicate a continuous operation time of approximately eight hours on a single charge for the 300 kg-class unit.
Demonstrations confirmed the platform's stability. With several engineers standing on its back, the chassis remained stable. It transported full pallets of industrial materials through the workshop, maintaining smooth motion during starts, stops, turns, and obstacle crossings. It also towed a full-size commercial vehicle.
The dual-form design is also notable. In addition to the flat heavy-duty variant, a rideable model is available. The lower body functions as the quadruped walking mechanism, while the upper body provides seating. This design supports last-mile transport of personnel and cargo within closed industrial parks or factory complexes.
Image Source: Kepler
The Mechanical Qilin is not just a hardware display; it is designed to work with the K2 "Bumblebee." The humanoid handles fine manipulation and situational assessment, while the quadruped manages heavy transport. This division of labor allows the system to address scenarios such as border patrol, emergency rescue, and field logistics.
Following Hangzhou Kerun's recent investment, the company is shifting from a hardware manufacturer to a full-stack platform combining hardware, real-world training data, and embodied intelligence. The Mechanical Qilin serves as a key component in this industrial expansion.
