NIO Ventures into Robotics, Following Chinese Automaker Trend
NIO, the New York-listed Chinese electric vehicle manufacturer, has joined the ranks of Chinese automakers venturing into the realm of robotics. The company has assembled a team of approximately 20 employees to explore the feasibility of developing four-legged robots internally. Xu Kang, an algorithm expert who joined NIO in 2020 after his tenure at Chinese self-driving car startup Momenta, leads this initiative. The details were reported by China's 21st Century Business Herald.
The move by NIO reflects a broader trend in the Chinese automotive industry, with companies increasingly showing interest in artificial intelligence robots. Established players like BYD, Chery, and GAC have already entered this emerging market. Tesla, under the leadership of CEO Elon Musk, is a frontrunner in this field. Musk mentioned that their humanoid robot, Optimus, could potentially be available for purchase by the end of 2025, as reported by Reuters.
In China, BYD recently announced a recruitment campaign for its Embodied Intelligent Research Team, following its investment in Shanghai-based software and robotics startup Agibot. GAC, known as a manufacturing partner of Toyota and Honda in China, showcased a humanoid robot with adaptable wheels capable of navigating stairs, grassy terrain, and crowded areas - environments typically deemed challenging. Xpeng Motors, in 2021, unveiled a four-legged, slow-moving robot pony designed for children, as reported by the South China Morning Post.
Not only automotive companies but also Chinese tech giants are delving into the robotics industry. Huawei established a research center for embodied intelligence in Shenzhen in November last year. Xiaomi introduced its humanoid robot prototype in 2022. Some automakers, like Audi and Zeekr, a subsidiary of Geely, are collaborating with Hong Kong-listed UBTECH to test robots in their manufacturing facilities.
NIO forms a team of 20 employees to explore in-house development of four-legged robots.
Chinese automakers, including BYD, GAC, and Xpeng Motors, are investing in robotics.
Tesla's CEO Elon Musk anticipates the sale of their humanoid robot, Optimus, by the end of 2025.
Source: TECHNODE