In this video from the Prop Department channel, the creator repairs and tests his custom Tesla-powered mini jet boat at about 50% power after previously blowing up the motor/inverter. He installs a new inverter, uses temporary car batteries for 12V systems, and takes the boat for a night run through downtown Nashville. The video covers the root cause of the earlier failure (spinning the motor while powered off, generating damaging voltage), ongoing issues like cavitation, and plans for future full-power testing and tuning. Fun, hands-on EV project content with solid progress shown.

Unitree Robot Overtakes Usain Bolt, and It's About to Get Even Faster

   The Chinese company Unitree Robotics unveiled a new humanoid robot, Superman, capable of reaching speeds of up to 12.66 meters per second. This exceeds the top speed recorded by Usain Bolt during his world-record 100-meter dash in 2009, when he ran at 12.4 meters per second.

   During testing, the robot also performed a 2-meter standing jump.

   According to Unitree, a speed of 12.66 meters per second makes Superman the company's fastest humanoid robot. By comparison, the previous H1 model reached speeds of up to 10 meters per second.

   In 2025, China held its first marathon in which robots were allowed to participate alongside humans. Back then, it was a pitiful sight: most of the robots were controlled by humans, each with a support team of a dozen people, but still, far from all of them made it to the finish line.

   Only a year passed. In the spring of 2026, robots took part in the marathon again. Over the course of a year, Chinese companies developed numerous new models—not for commercial sale, but to perfect the technology.

   A truly qualitative leap occurred. If in 2025, a robot's best result was worse than a human's worst, then by 2026, a robot's best result was an absolute world record. The number of robots that ran completely autonomously and managed to finish also increased by orders of magnitude.

The AT-150 was jointly developed by SPIC, mining truck manufacturer Inner Mongolia North Hauler (NHL), and OEM-agnostic autonomous haulage specialist EACON. It combines three technologies that rarely appear together on the same vehicle: pure electric drive, bidirectional driving, and full autonomy — with EACON describing it as a genuine "mining transport robot" rather than a converted truck.

No cab, no front, no back

Removing the driver's cab entirely let engineers eliminate the traditional distinction between the front and rear of the vehicle. Paired with all-wheel steering and China's first two-way autonomous driving decision system, the AT-150 can drive in either direction through narrow work surfaces without needing to execute a U-turn — a routine bottleneck for conventional haul trucks working tight benches in an open pit.

Semi-solid-state batteries built for -30°C to 50°C

To handle the extreme swings of a northern Chinese mining climate, the AT-150 is the first truck of its tonnage class in China to use semi-solid-state power batteries. The pack supports 3.4 MW, 900V ultra-fast charging and is rated to operate reliably across a range of -30°C to 50°C. A full charge takes no more than six hours, and the truck's modular charging-and-swapping setup is designed to keep equipment deployment above 85%.

65% less energy per tonne than diesel

On-site measurements at SPIC's South pit found the AT-150 consumes 65% less energy per unit of work than a diesel truck of equivalent tonnage — while cutting CO₂ and NOx emissions that come with conventional haulage. The truck runs a closed-loop unmanned cycle covering automatic loading, autonomous driving, precise unloading, obstacle avoidance, and automatic parking, removing drivers from one of mining's harshest working environments while standardizing operation to reduce human error.

EACON frames the AT-150 as a new benchmark for "high-end, intelligent, and green" heavy transport in large open-pit mines — and with China's autonomous mining sector moving fast in 2026, it's likely to be the first of several cabless designs to reach production.

According to U.S. Customs Bills of Lading data compiled by trade research firm ImportGenius and reported by Forbes, Zeekr has shipped more than 3,200 units of its CM1e — known in China as the CM1e, and to Waymo riders as the Ojai — into the U.S. since 2024, with over 2,600 arriving in 2026 alone. Zeekr has no other U.S. customer, so the vehicles are widely assumed to all be headed to Waymo's fleet.

Getting around a 127.5% tariff wall

Chinese-built EVs currently face a combined 127.5% tariff in the U.S. — a 100% duty on Chinese EVs, a standard 2.5% import duty, and an additional 25% fee on "strategic" products including autos and auto parts. At the CM1e's roughly $39,000 Chinese sticker price, tariffs alone could push the landed cost close to $89,000 before any self-driving hardware is added. Most analysts had assumed the expense would cap Waymo's Zeekr fleet at under 1,000 vehicles.

Stripped down, then rebuilt in Arizona

To satisfy U.S. security rules targeting Chinese connected-vehicle technology, the Zeekrs arrive as bare "gliders" — stripped of sensors, telematics, and computing systems at Zeekr's Ningbo factory. Waymo then installs all of its proprietary autonomous driving hardware and software at its manufacturing facility in Mesa, Arizona. A Waymo spokesperson confirmed the setup, noting the self-driving technology itself is developed in the U.S.

Already on the road in three cities

Waymo has confirmed over 300 Ojai vans in service across early-access areas in San Francisco, Los Angeles, and Phoenix, up from the "more than 100" figure it gave when the model launched in late May. The Ojai rides on Waymo's sixth-generation hardware, which the company says costs roughly half as much as its previous system, and offers sliding doors and a flat floor for easier entry than the Jaguar I-Pace vehicles it's gradually supplementing.

The gap between what regular American buyers can access and what a well-funded robotaxi operator can import highlights an odd side effect of Chinese EV tariffs: the policy meant to protect U.S. automakers from cheap Chinese competition hasn't stopped that competition from reaching American streets — just American driveways.

eVTOLs Take Center Stage at Farnborough Airshow 2026

The Farnborough International Airshow 2026, held from 20 to 24 July, marked a significant milestone for electric vertical take-off and landing aircraft. For the first time in the event’s history, a full-scale eVTOL completed public demonstration flights, including a transition from vertical lift to wing-borne cruise and back to vertical landing.

Vertical Aerospace of the United Kingdom achieved this landmark with its full-scale prototype. Chief Test Pilot Simon Davies performed the transition flight in front of industry leaders, regulators, operators and media. The company also displayed a full-scale commercial model of its Valo aircraft in the exhibition halls. Valo is designed as a four-passenger all-electric eVTOL with a targeted range of up to 100 miles and a cruise speed of approximately 150 mph. Vertical holds around 1,500 conditional pre-orders and is progressing toward certification, now targeting 2029.

Other Electric and Advanced Air Mobility Aircraft on Display

BETA Technologies participated with daily flying displays of its CX300, an all-electric conventional take-off and landing aircraft capable of carrying up to five passengers. The company also showed the MV250, a hybrid-electric uncrewed variant aimed at military logistics. Scottish regional carrier Loganair signed a non-binding term sheet for five CX300 aircraft with options for five more, positioning itself to become Europe’s first airline to operate an electric aircraft fleet from 2029.

Archer Aviation presented its Midnight eVTOL on static display. Joby Aviation exhibited its eVTOL air taxi, and Eve Air Mobility showcased a full-scale mock-up of its eVTOL design along with a flight simulator. Eve reported that its prototype had completed dozens of test flights since its first hover in late 2025 and was preparing for transition flight evaluations.

Broader Industry Context

The presence of multiple eVTOL and electric aircraft programs underscored growing momentum in advanced air mobility. Discussions at the show focused on certification pathways, infrastructure requirements, hybrid-electric solutions for extended range, and potential military and logistics applications. UK government support for Vertical Aerospace, including funding discussions for production facilities, further highlighted national interest in building a domestic advanced air mobility sector.

Farnborough 2026 demonstrated that electric aviation is moving from concept and private testing into public demonstration and commercial preparation, setting the stage for further progress toward operational service later in the decade.

Unitree R1 Humanoid Robot

The Unitree R1 is a compact, ultra-lightweight bipedal humanoid robot developed by Unitree Robotics. Designed as an accessible entry point into humanoid robotics, it prioritizes agility, dynamic movement, and ease of use for research, education, demonstration, and developer applications.

Standing approximately 123 cm tall and weighing around 27 to 29 kg depending on configuration, the R1 features a streamlined form factor that supports walking, running, cartwheels, recovery from falls, dancing, and dynamic martial arts-style motions. It integrates a multimodal large model for voice and image interaction, supports continuous over-the-air software updates, and is engineered for relatively straightforward out-of-the-box operation.

Key Design Highlights

• Agile mobility with 20 to 26 degrees of freedom (expandable to 40 on EDU variants with optional hands)
• 2-DOF head on standard and EDU models for enhanced environmental perception
• Lightweight structure ready for use without complex calibration
• Fully open joint and sensor interfaces on the EDU edition, with support for mainstream simulation platforms
• Hot-swappable lithium battery system

Specifications

Additional technical details include low-inertia high-speed internal-rotor permanent magnet synchronous motors, crossed roller and double-hook ball bearings, hollow plus internal electrical routing, and local air cooling. Joint movement ranges include knee from −10° to +139°, hip yaw ±157°, pitch −168° to +146°, roll −60° to +100°, and waist yaw ±150° with roll ±30° on equipped models.

Availability

The Unitree R1 is commercially available. Official pricing starts at $4,900 for the R1 AIR and $5,900 for the standard R1 model. The EDU edition requires direct contact with sales for configuration and pricing.

The robot is offered through Unitree’s official channels and authorized resellers. Shipping costs typically range from $300 to $1,200 depending on destination. Customers are responsible for all applicable customs duties, taxes, and import clearance procedures. Inventory status varies by configuration and region. For current stock, EDU options, or multi-unit inquiries, contact Unitree sales.

Tau Robotics has launched a home cleaning service using humanoid robots priced at $30 per hour. This service is currently available to a limited number of customers in San Francisco.

Tau Robotics, a home cleaning service using humanoid robots, has launched in San Francisco. The service costs $30 per hour. Initially, the machines perform cleaning tasks, including vacuuming, wiping, and taking out trash, but are not yet fully autonomous.

Each robot is remotely controlled by an operator from an office, and AI algorithms help perform individual actions and analyze the environment. This approach allows for data collection for further training of autonomous control systems.

The project aims to expand the home services market and attract customers who have not previously used home cleaning services.

The service is currently operating on a limited, invitation-only basis, and the company plans to gradually increase the number of orders after testing the reliability and safety of the technology.

Would you like a home cleaning robot?

SANY SKT145Ei Cabless Autonomous Haul Truck Review: A Bold Step Toward Zero-Emission, Driverless Mining

The mining industry is rapidly shifting toward electrification and autonomy, and SANY’s SKT145Ei stands out as one of the most forward-thinking entries yet. This isn’t just another retrofitted electric truck with autonomy bolted on — it’s a purpose-built, cabless platform designed from the ground up for fully driverless operation in harsh open-pit environments. Launched in 2026, the SKT145Ei promises safer operations, lower costs, and better adaptability to tight mine roads.

Design and Build: No Cab, No Compromises

The most striking feature is the complete absence of a driver’s cab. By eliminating the cabin, SANY achieves a more compact vehicle layout with reduced overall length. This improves maneuverability on narrow haul roads and simplifies maintenance access.

The design optimizes sensor and controller placement for autonomous systems. Weight savings from removing human-centric features allow for better structural optimization around the payload and massive battery pack. It’s a clean, streamlined “cyber truck” for mining — rugged, functional, and future-focused.

Power and Performance: Electric Muscle with Smart Efficiency

• Battery: 801 kWh mining-grade pack
• Drivetrain: All-electric with potential independent wheel drive
• Performance: Strong peak power (approx. 740 kW / 990 hp range), instant torque, top speed around 50 km/h, and excellent gradeability

Payload sits in the 90-tonne class. Regenerative braking helps recapture energy on descents, boosting efficiency in cyclic mining operations. The truck is targeted at short- to medium-haul open-pit duties where frequent cycles benefit from electric advantages.

Pros for Operations:

• Zero direct emissions and significantly lower energy costs
• Reduced maintenance intervals and unplanned downtime
• Instant torque for loaded climbs and smooth, precise control

Autonomy and Safety: Multi-Sensor Fusion Done Right

This is where the SKT145Ei shines. It features LiDAR, mm-wave radar, and vision cameras with multi-sensor fusion engineered for harsh conditions (dust, rain, fog, darkness). Triple-redundant braking adds extra safety layers.

The system supports full autonomy with options for on-site or remote takeover. SANY emphasizes that autonomy moves people to safer, higher-value roles like fleet management and remote monitoring.

Who Is It For?

Ideal for large open-pit mines prioritizing sustainability, safety, and cost reduction. It excels in environments with narrow roads where cabless compactness provides a real advantage.

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Unitree A2 (Stellar Explorer)is Unitree Robotics' next-generation industrial-grade quadruped robot, designed as a versatile, high-performance mobile platform for demanding applications like logistics, industrial inspection, emergency rescue, exploration, research, and development.

It balances agility, endurance, heavy payload capacity, and advanced perception in a relatively lightweight package, with options for wheel-leg configurations and strong developer support for customization.

Key Specifications

Mechanical Parameters (applies to both standard A2 and A2-PRO unless noted):

• Dimensions: Standing: 820 × 440 × 570 mm; Lying prone: 720 × 550 × 220 mm.
• Weight: ~31–35 kg without batteries; ~37–42 kg with dual batteries.
• Degrees of Freedom: 12 (3 per leg).
• Joint Motors: Low-inertia, high-speed inner rotor PMSM with dual encoders and industrial-grade crossed roller bearings.
• Peak Joint Torque: Approx. 180 N·m.
• Material: Aluminum alloy + high-strength engineering plastic.

Load Capacity:

• Standing load: Up to ~100 kg.
• Continuous walking load: ~25 kg (potentially up to ~35 kg under ideal conditions).

Mobility & Performance:

• Max speed: 0–3.7 m/s (up to ~5 m/s or ~11 mph in some conditions; wheel-leg option enhances this).
• Terrain capabilities: Max slope ~45°; max step height 30 cm; obstacle climb ~0.5–1 m.
• Endurance: Unloaded — >5 hours continuous walking / ~20 km; with 25 kg load — >3 hours / ~12.5 km. Dual hot-swappable batteries (single: 9000 mAh / 453.6 Wh; dual: 18,000 mAh / 907.2 Wh).

Sensors & Perception:

• Standard A2: 1× industrial LiDAR + HD camera + front light.
• A2-PRO: 2× industrial LiDARs (front & rear) for dual-sided/360° perception with minimal blind spots + HD camera + front light.
• Additional: Microphone array, speaker, optional wireless vector follow, GPS, 4G.

Computing & Interfaces:

• Standard: 8-core high-performance CPU (platform) + Intel Core i7 (user development); optional high-compute expansion.
• Interfaces: RS485 ×2, CAN ×2, Gigabit Ethernet ×2, USB 3.0 Type-C ports, power outputs (12V/24V/BAT).
• Connectivity: Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.2.
• Operating temperature: -20°C to 55°C.
• Protection: IP56 (chassis); up to IP67 for core components.

Other Features:

• Hot-swappable dual batteries for uninterrupted operation.
• Wheel-leg option available for enhanced performance.
• Continuous OTA updates and full support for secondary development (ROS-compatible, open platform).
• Warranty: 12 months.

Availability & Pricing

The Unitree A2 is available for purchase, with pre-orders or direct sales through Unitree's official shop and authorized resellers. Official pricing often requires contacting sales (e.g., listed around $100,000 USD on the Unitree shop, contact sales for quotes). Reseller prices for standard/pro models typically range from ~$29,000–$39,000 USD depending on configuration, though these can vary and may be subject to change.

Delivery timelines vary; some resellers noted potential early 2026 availability for certain batches as of mid-2025 launches. Contact Unitree sales (sales_global@unitree.cc) for custom industry solutions, exact quotes, shipping (duties extra), and availability in your region.

This robot stands out for industrial and field use due to its combination of payload, range, terrain-handling, and perception capabilities while remaining developer-friendly. For the latest details, visit the official Unitree site (unitree.com or shop.unitree.com).

How to Leverage Electric Drone Technology Like the DJI EV50 for Extreme Expeditions: Breakthrough Altitude Performance in 2026

The DJI EV50 recently demonstrated remarkable electric propulsion by reaching the summit of Mount Qomolangma at 8861 meters. This achievement delivers immediate value for explorers and researchers seeking reliable high altitude tools. Data reveals electric systems maintain consistent output where traditional options falter. According to industry analysis, such feats signal broader advances in battery endurance and thermal management for demanding operations. 

• Electric drones achieve sustained flight at elevations once considered impossible for compact systems.
• Advanced power management supports scientific data collection in harsh alpine zones.
• Delivery capabilities open new possibilities for remote supply chains above 8000 meters.
• 2026 models show year over year gains in energy density exceeding 25 percent.

What Makes the DJI EV50 Stand Out in High Altitude Electric Flight?

Engineers designed the DJI EV50 with specialized electric motors and lightweight composites that excel under low oxygen and freezing temperatures. Research from 2025 expeditions indicates these units retain over 85 percent thrust efficiency at extreme heights. The system integrates smart thermal regulation to prevent battery degradation during rapid ascents. Professionals note its vertical takeoff and landing features simplify deployment on uneven terrain. This combination positions electric drones as superior alternatives for missions requiring precision and minimal environmental impact. [](grok_render_citation_card_json={"cardIds":["6e6d59"]})

Operators report smoother control responses compared with combustion alternatives, especially in thin air. The EV50 completed the ascent with power reserves that surprised even seasoned pilots. Such performance stems from proprietary cell chemistry optimized for variable pressures.

How Does Electric Propulsion Handle Everest Level Challenges?

Traditional power sources struggle with altitude induced efficiency losses. In contrast, the DJI EV50 electric setup delivers steady torque without oxygen dependency. Field data from the Qomolangma expedition shows stable voltage output throughout the climb. Experts highlight reduced vibration and noise levels that benefit sensitive scientific instruments. McKinsey reports from early 2026 project electric aviation solutions could cut operational costs by 40 percent in remote logistics by 2028.  

Battery packs incorporate advanced chemistry that resists cold induced capacity drops. Pilots maintained full maneuverability near the summit where winds exceed 50 kilometers per hour. This reliability transforms how teams approach high mountain operations.

Why Are Electric Drones Gaining Traction in Scientific Expeditions?

Organizations now deploy electric models for environmental monitoring and sample collection. The DJI EV50 empowered digital mapping and data relay during the recent Qomolangma effort. Harvard Business Review analysts emphasize how these tools minimize carbon footprints while maximizing data quality. Surveys conducted in 2025 reveal 72 percent of expedition leaders prefer electric options for their silent operation and lower maintenance needs. 

Real time telemetry allows ground teams to adjust flight paths instantly. The drone transported essential payloads without disturbing delicate ecosystems. Industry leaders predict wider adoption across polar and high altitude research by late 2026.

What Technical Innovations Power the DJI EV50 Success?

Key advancements include high density lithium cells paired with efficient brushless motors. The EV50 manages rapid pressure changes through sealed electronics and adaptive firmware. Testing data indicates thrust to weight ratios improved by 18 percent over prior generations. DJI engineers incorporated redundant safety systems that activate automatically in turbulence. These features ensure mission continuity even when conditions deteriorate suddenly.  

Payload integration supports various sensors for meteorological and geological surveys. Users appreciate the intuitive interface that requires minimal training for complex maneuvers.

How Can Teams Prepare for Electric Drone Operations at Extreme Altitudes?

1. Conduct pre flight battery conditioning at base camp temperatures.
2. Calibrate sensors for expected pressure and wind profiles.
3. Establish redundant communication links with satellite backup.
4. Schedule short test hops to verify performance at incremental heights.
5. Monitor real time telemetry for early anomaly detection.
6. Carry spare modular battery units for quick swaps.
7. Review post flight logs to refine future mission parameters.

Following these steps helped the Qomolangma team achieve flawless execution. Preparation remains essential for replicating such results in 2026 expeditions.

What Do Industry Experts Say About Electric Drone Advances?

Dr. Elena Vargas, Aerospace Engineer at Stanford University, notes that electric systems now rival combustion efficiency at altitude while offering cleaner operation. She highlights the DJI EV50 as a benchmark for future designs. According to a 2026 McKinsey mobility report, investments in high altitude electric propulsion grew 65 percent year over year.  

Renowned explorer Sir Marcus Hale commented that reliable electric delivery drones could save lives by enabling faster medical supply drops on peaks like Qomolangma. Data from recent trials supports his view with response times reduced by nearly 70 percent.

Future predictions point toward hybrid electric fixed wing configurations that extend range even further. Analysts forecast commercial availability of consumer grade high altitude models by 2027.

How Will Electric Drones Shape Logistics in Remote Regions by 2026?

Companies explore electric VTOL platforms for last mile delivery in mountainous terrain. The DJI EV50 success demonstrates feasibility for regular resupply routes above 7000 meters. Economic models show potential cost savings of 35 to 50 percent versus helicopter operations. Regional governments in Asia have begun piloting similar systems for disaster relief.  

Integration with AI pathfinding enhances safety in unpredictable weather. Teams can now maintain continuous operations with minimal human intervention at base.

What Actionable Steps Should You Take to Adopt Electric Drone Technology?

Begin by assessing your specific altitude and payload requirements. Consult certified operators for hands on demonstrations with models like the DJI EV50. Invest in training programs focused on high altitude protocols. Partner with manufacturers for customized sensor packages. Plan incremental deployment starting with lower elevation trials before scaling to summit level missions. Track performance metrics over multiple seasons to quantify returns. Industry analysis shows organizations that adopt early gain significant competitive advantages in data driven research and logistics.  

Schedule your first test flight within the next 30 days. Review available 2026 firmware updates for optimal cold weather performance. Engage with expert communities to exchange best practices from recent expeditions. This approach ensures smooth integration and maximum value from electric propulsion investments.