Beijing is set to host a unique half-marathon this April, where 12,000 human runners will compete alongside bipedal robots from top companies like Tesla, Boston Dynamics and 1X. The robots, standing 0.5 to 2 metres tall, must resemble humans and be capable of running or walking on two legs.

While experts say humans still have the edge given robots` 8-12 km/h speed range compared to the 14 km/h pace needed to finish in 1.5 hours battery life will be a key factor. Midrace battery swaps will be allowed.

Last year, Laibo 2 became the first quadruped to complete a full marathon, but only bipedal robots can compete in April.