Hours after Boston Dynamics retired its well-known Atlas robot that was powered by hydraulics, the company unveiled its new Atlas robot, this time powered by electricity. Coming with a greater range of movement than its predecessor, the new version has been redesigned with swiveling joints that the company claims make it “uniquely capable of tackling dull, dirty, and dangerous tasks”.

“We designed the electric version of Atlas to be stronger, more dexterous, and more agile. Atlas may resemble a human form factor, but we are equipping the robot to move in the most efficient way possible to complete a task, rather than being constrained by a human range of motion. Atlas will move in ways that exceed human capabilities,” the company has said.

A new video shows the robot contorting its limbs in ways more complex than its predecessor could manage. The new Atlas comes with longer limbs, a straighter back, and a distinct “head” that can swivel. And the face has a built-in ring light.

Boston Dynamics said that it will receive additional investment from automobile manufacturer Hyundai, which will also begin experimenting with using Atlas to manufacture vehicles. Other humanoid robots from rival providers like Figure and Apptronik are similarly being tested on production lines for BMW and Mercedes, respectively.