A robot that can run and is described as the most advanced yet developed makes its European debut this week.

The second-generation Asimo, developed by Honda, will go on show in Barcelona to demonstrate how it can run and climb stairs, though not simultaneously. It can, however, walk hand-in-hand with a human associate and deliver a tray loaded with cups of tea and coffee.

The running speed of the robot is only 4mph but the movement qualifies as a run because both feet are off the ground at the same time.

William de Braekeleer, of Honda, said that the new generation Asimo is the most advanced humanoid robot in terms of mimicking human motion. He said that the creators now want to improve the robot’s intelligence and ability to learn so that it can perform household chores and other tasks. “Our goal is to be able to create a robot that can move around things in the same way we do and operate in our environment,” he said.

“What we are now focused on is to improve its artificial intelligence. It has plenty of physical abilities – it’s only lacking the intelligence in its mission to be helpful.”

Among the skills that could be added to the robot’s repertoire over the next decade is the ability to distinguish between different objects and to use them to work out where it is.

By registering that a toaster, dishwasher and coffeemaker are within reach, the robot should be able to reason that it is in a kitchen.

The robot’s appearance in Barcelona on Thursday has been organised as part of the city’s celebration of science.

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