Cheetah robot sets 28.3 mph speed record, outrunning Usain Bolt

Improvements to Boston Dynamics’ Cheetah robot have allowed it to set a new speed record, running at 28.3 mph — faster than Usain Bolt’s top speed of 27.78 mph. Engineers have optimized the algorithms controlling the robot’s legs, which mimic those of its biological namesake, far outstripping the robot’s previous record of 18 mph, though it still runs on a treadmill with a supporting arm.