Robot Horse Powered by Hydrogen

In a futuristic fusion of robotics and hydrogen power, Kawasaki has introduced Corleo, a life-sized, hydrogen-powered robotic horse designed to carry humans over uneven terrain. Unlike traditional robots confined to labs, Corleo is built to operate in real-world environments and could redefine the way we approach mobility.

https://newatlas.com/automotive/kawasaki-corleo-robot-horse/

Kawasaki's Corleo was revealed at the 2024 International Robot Exhibition in Tokyo. Standing tall with a lifelike horse-like gait, the four-legged robot aims to bridge the gap between utility and empathy. It is designed not only for practical transport but also to connect with people on a deeper emotional level—potentially making it useful for tourism, elderly care, and outdoor adventures.

Although still in the prototype phase, Corleo is powered by hydrogen, showcasing Kawasaki’s commitment to clean energy and zero-emission robotics. Its bipedal movement has been tuned to resemble a real horse’s stride, providing stability on difficult terrain while accommodating a full-sized human rider.

Kawasaki's robotics team envisions a future where robots like Corleo assist in disaster zones, remote logistics, and caregiving. The company is also exploring how its hydrogen technology, already applied in marine and aerospace sectors, can power next-gen robots with longer endurance and lower environmental impact.

"This isn't just about building a robot," a Kawasaki engineer stated during the demonstration. "It’s about building a companion for the future—powered by clean energy and designed for the real world."

For more information

https://global.kawasaki.com

(Top image: Credit — Kawasaki)

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Hydrogen Robot Horse FAQ: Why Hydrogen for Kawasaki's Corleo?

1. What is Corleo?

   1. Corleo is a four-legged robotic horse developed by Kawasaki, designed to carry a human rider and navigate uneven terrain using clean hydrogen power.

2. Why did Kawasaki choose hydrogen for Corleo instead of batteries?

   1. Hydrogen fuel cells offer longer operational time, faster refueling, and better performance in demanding outdoor conditions compared to traditional lithium-ion batteries.

3. How does hydrogen power the robot horse?

   1. Hydrogen is fed into a fuel cell system where it reacts with oxygen to generate electricity, which powers Corleo’s motors—emitting only water vapor as a byproduct.

4. Is hydrogen safe for robotic use?

   1. Yes. Hydrogen is safely used in various sectors, including aerospace and automotive. Kawasaki applies strict safety protocols in its design and storage systems.

5. How long can Corleo run on hydrogen?

   1. While exact runtime has not been disclosed, hydrogen systems generally provide several hours of continuous operation—ideal for field use and transport.

6. What are the advantages of using hydrogen in mobile robots?

   1. Hydrogen allows for greater endurance, quick refueling, and lighter energy systems, making it ideal for mobile, load-bearing robots like Corleo.

7. Where would a hydrogen-powered robot horse like Corleo be used?

   1. Corleo is envisioned for tourism, elderly care, logistics in remote areas, and potentially in disaster response—anywhere mobility, safety, and sustainability are key.

8. Is Kawasaki using hydrogen in other products?

   1. Yes, Kawasaki is developing hydrogen solutions for motorcycles, ships, powerplants, and aerospace, making Corleo part of a broader hydrogen ecosystem.

9. Can Corleo's hydrogen system be refueled in the field?

   1. With portable hydrogen refueling solutions becoming more available, yes—Corleo could be refueled in outdoor settings without needing a full charging station.

10. What does Corleo mean for the future of robotics?

    1. Corleo signals a shift toward emotionally intelligent, clean-energy robots that can work alongside humans in real environments—not just factories or labs.