Do Humanoids Need Legs? Wheeled Bases Might Suffice for Flat Factories
chris_j_paxton · x · 2026-08-03
There is an ongoing debate about whether humanoid robots actually need legs. Proponents of wheeled bases point out that an estimated 85% to 90% of U.S. manufacturing facilities are single-story, with over 90% of operational floor space being step-free or ADA-compliant.
Advocates argue that wheeled bases are cheaper, reduce tipping risks, and are highly practical for most flat industrial environments, while bipedal designs remain advantageous for complex terrains. Both forms have their place depending on the use case.
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