Chinese electric vehicle (EV) manufacturers are increasingly integrating humanoid robots into their operations, aiming to enhance production efficiency and compete with global leaders like Tesla.
Xpeng’s “Iron” Robot:
Xpeng, a prominent Chinese EV maker, unveiled its humanoid robot named “Iron” during its 2024 AI Day event. Standing nearly six feet tall, Iron boasts over 60 joints and 200 degrees of freedom, enabling a wide range of movements. The robot shares artificial intelligence technology with Xpeng’s vehicles and is already operational in the company’s factories and stores, assisting in assembling the upcoming P7+ EV.
Dongfeng Motors and Nio’s Collaborations:
Other Chinese automakers are also embracing robotics. Dongfeng Motors and Nio have partnered with Ubtech Robotics to deploy the “Walker S” humanoid robots on their assembly lines. These robots are utilized for tasks such as inspecting seat belts, door locks, performing quality checks, and assembling car axles. The Walker S, equipped with AI technology from Baidu, can perceive its environment and recognize complex objects, enhancing its utility in manufacturing settings.
Market Context:
These initiatives come as Tesla faces increasing competition in China, with local EV startups developing their own versions of Tesla’s Optimus robot. The integration of humanoid robots into production lines reflects a broader trend in the automotive industry to adopt advanced robotics, aiming to improve efficiency and reduce reliance on human labor for repetitive tasks.
Overall, the adoption of humanoid robots by Chinese EV manufacturers signifies a significant shift towards automation and technological innovation in the automotive sector.
