On April 13, Beijing will host the world’s first humanoid robot half marathon, featuring 23 teams from various companies and universities. Robots like “Lingbao” and the compact “N2” are set to compete, showcasing advancements in robotics and testing their capabilities in a challenging 21-kilometer race.
Hyundai is set to purchase tens of thousands of Boston Dynamics’ robots, marking a significant step in integrating humanoid technology into manufacturing. This partnership aims to accelerate robot development and commercialization, with the redesigned electric Atlas humanoid expected to begin operations in Hyundai factories by 2025.
California-based Dexterity has introduced Mech, the world’s first AI-powered industrial super-humanoid robot. With a remarkable 17.72-foot arm span and the ability to lift 132 pounds, Mech is designed to enhance productivity and safety in logistics and manufacturing, performing complex tasks with human-like adaptability and superhuman strength.
China is aiming for technological leadership in humanoid robots, exemplified by the G1 model from Unitree Robotics. While facing economic challenges, the country invests heavily in robotics to address demographic shifts and enhance productivity, showcasing innovations in public events and integrating robots into various sectors, including security.
China is rapidly advancing in humanoid robot development, with models like Kuavo already performing various tasks in public spaces. The country’s humanoid robot market is projected to reach 870 billion yuan by 2030, driven by government support and a focus on embodied intelligence for next-generation AI applications.
Chinese startup MagicLab has unveiled its humanoid robot, Xiaomai, designed to perform various customer service tasks, including haircuts and hotel greetings. With plans to produce 400 units by 2025, MagicLab aims to enhance the robotics industry, focusing on real-world applications and improving quality of life.
Figure, a U.S. robotics company, has achieved a breakthrough in humanoid robot technology, enabling its Figure 02 robot to walk with a more natural gait. This advancement, utilizing reinforcement learning, enhances robots’ mobility in real-world environments, paving the way for practical applications in industries like manufacturing and warehousing.
Humanoid robots are designed to complement human work by taking on monotonous tasks, enhancing productivity. Equipped with advanced AI and sensors, they can learn and adapt to various environments. Recent tests at the Kecskemét Mercedes factory highlight their potential in logistics and manufacturing, showcasing their ability to operate effectively alongside humans.
American robotics companies are advocating for a national strategy to enhance the industry, emphasizing the need for a federal office to promote innovation. With China prioritizing intelligent robots, U.S. firms like Tesla and Boston Dynamics stress the importance of policies that support domestic production and AI advancements in the global robotics race.
Tesla and Nvidia may soon face tough competition from China in the humanoid robots race. With competitive pricing and advanced manufacturing, Chinese firms like Agibot aim to produce 5,000 humanoid robots, potentially disrupting the U.S. market and transforming the labor force, according to industry analysts.
