The streets of some Chinese cities are now seeing a modern kind of patrol: humanoid robots. EngineAI, a Chinese company that gained notoriety after one of its robots actually kicked its CEO, has begun testing its PM01 model in Shenzhen’s Nashan District. The deployment, while currently a trial, marks a significant step in the integration of advanced robotics into public life and raises questions about the future of policing and public safety. The rise of robot combat leagues in China underscores the country’s growing investment in robotics technology.
Footage of the PM01, which shares a similar aesthetic to the science fiction film character from “The Terminator,” walking alongside two police officers in a popular tourist area has circulated online, including a post on X (formerly Twitter). While the initial deployment is a test, EngineAI’s PM01 could develop into a tool to support public safety efforts. However, the company isn’t alone in developing humanoid robots for public service roles.
China’s Rapid Expansion in Robotics
China is rapidly becoming a global leader in the development and deployment of robotics, with significant investment flowing into the sector. According to a press release from December 8, 2025, EngineAI secured 1 billion yuan in funding to bolster research and development and accelerate the production of its humanoid robots, including the T800 and PM01 models. This funding round included investment from industrial capital, state-owned assets, and market-oriented institutions, signaling strong confidence in the potential of the humanoid robotics industry. The company has completed both Series A1+ and Series A2 financing rounds, demonstrating its progress and attracting further investment.
Beyond EngineAI, other companies are also contributing to this trend. AiMOGA is working with local governments to deploy its “RoboCop” Intelligent Police Unit R001, equipped with six high-definition cameras, to assist traffic officers during peak hours and respond to disruptions. The Hangxing No.1 humanoid robot is also being tested in Chinese cities, offering capabilities such as traffic violation detection and pedestrian assistance, utilizing sensors, cameras, and voice systems. This robot can even integrate with traffic lights to optimize traffic flow and potentially reduce the need for human police presence.
A Spectrum of Robotic Approaches
While EngineAI’s PM01 adopts a more imposing, “Terminator”-like design, other companies are prioritizing a more approachable aesthetic. Futuristic robot traffic officers have already been deployed in cities like Wuhu, Hangzhou, Shanghai, and Chengdu, suggesting a preference for robots that appear less intimidating to the public. These robots are designed to integrate seamlessly into urban environments and assist with tasks like traffic management and pedestrian safety.
The differing approaches highlight a debate about the optimal design for public safety robots. Some argue that a more authoritative appearance may deter crime, while others believe that a friendly and approachable design will foster greater public trust and cooperation. It remains to be seen which approach will ultimately prevail as these technologies become more widespread.
The T800 and EngineAI’s Ambitions
EngineAI first gained attention with its T800 humanoid fighting robot, which, as reported by multiple sources, famously kicked its CEO during a demonstration. The company’s subsequent launch of the full-size, high-performance T800 in December 2025, backed by substantial funding, signals its ambition to become a leading player in the humanoid robotics market. The T800 and PM01 share a similar design, suggesting a common technological foundation and a focus on creating robots capable of performing a wide range of tasks.
The company’s website describes the T800 as a “hardcore evolution” and an “explosive rebirth,” indicating a commitment to pushing the boundaries of humanoid robot capabilities. EngineAI’s success in securing significant funding demonstrates the growing investor confidence in the potential of this technology. The company’s focus on developing a full-stack technology system, from hardware to software, suggests a long-term strategy of vertical integration and control over its entire product line.
While Notice currently no official plans to replace human police officers with robots, the increasing deployment of these technologies suggests a shift in the landscape of public safety. The evolution of these robots in the coming years will be a key indicator of the future of policing and the role of artificial intelligence in maintaining public order.
The next step for EngineAI and other companies in this space will be to gather data from these initial deployments and refine their technologies based on real-world performance. Further announcements regarding expanded deployments and new capabilities are expected in the coming months. The development of these humanoid robots is an ongoing process, and their impact on society will continue to unfold as the technology matures.
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