Quadrupedal robot maker Unitree Robotics has launched an upgraded industrial inspection model called the Unitree B2. Improving endurance and load capacity over prior generations, the hefty quadruped looks primed for long-ranging infrastructure surveillance.

Key upgrades equip the B2 with beefier batteries for 4-6 hours of continuous operations depending on carried payloads. This enables covering over 15km on a charge even while lugging 20kg - a 100% boost over the previous Unitree B1.

Optional powered wheels on each foot further extend flat-terrain range for missions necessitating hours of autonomous mobility. Between stepping over obstacles and rolling on smooth passages, the B2 balances durability with efficiency.

Sensors have also been refreshed, with new lidars aiding navigation through cluttered spaces like construction zones or dense urban settings. Ruggedness defines the entire platform as Unitree envisions diverse data-gathering roles from factories to pipelines.

Priced from $100,000, the B2 significantly elevates Unitree's industrial offerings as the company continues making waves in legged robotics. Just this week, an absurd viral video showed the startup nonchalantly shoving around its humanoid bot H1 to stress-test balance algorithms.

While brutal experiments underscore robustness, the sophisticated B2 conversely highlights delicacy in tackling nuanced inspection tasks. Unitree aims to cement leadership supplying enterprises bespoke solutions pairing power with precision at reasonable costs compared to competitors.

As infrastructure ages and skilled labor wanes, the B2's augmented physical capabilities and stamina narrow the gap preventing quadruped adoption so far. Built rugged for the rigors of real-world operations, the brawny bot may compel businesses to finally take the plunge into legged robotics.

Unitree B2 quadruped Specs

Here’s a quick glance at some of the specs of the Unitree B2:

• Max Running Speed: ＞6m/s
• Max Joint Torque: About 360N.m
• Longest Jump Distance: ＞1.6m
• Standing load: 120kg max.
• Continuous walking load: 40kg
• Obstacle crossing: Max 40cm
• Slope angle > 45°
• Continuous walking without load: 5h
• 20kg load continuous walking: 4h