Chinese car companies pursue humanoid robots following Tesla's example

Xpeng's robotics arm raised $900M at a $6.3B valuation, with founders contributing $100M. The funding, led by IDG Capital and others, is the largest in China's embodied AI sector. Xpeng's humanoid robot, Iron, is designed for commercial use. Other Chinese automakers, including Chery, BYD, and SAIC, are also developing humanoid robots. Analysts note Xpeng's focus on autonomy and AI, comparing it to Tesla's strategy. Hyundai plans to deploy Atlas robots in its Georgia plant by 2028, setting a benc

XPeng Inc. (XPEV) reported higher revenue but wider losses for H1 2026, with Q3 guidance of 115,000-121,000 vehicle deliveries and CNY 21.7-23.4 billion in revenue. The company also announced a funding round for its humanoid robotics unit, aiming for scaled production by year-end. Analysts' 2029 revenue and earnings estimates vary significantly, reflecting differing views on competition and brand pressure.

Xpeng, a Chinese EV maker, is in talks to acquire Volkswagen's European plants, citing outdated facilities. Xpeng currently uses Magna Steyr for production but seeks its own plant. Volkswagen invested $700M in Xpeng in 2023. Volkswagen is restructuring, closing a plant and planning job cuts.

Chinese automakers, including Xpeng, Chery, BYD, and others, are investing in humanoid robots, following Tesla's lead. Xpeng's robotics unit raised $900M at a $6.3B valuation, with backing from founders and major investors. Xpeng's Iron robot is designed for commercial use, and the company aims to leverage its manufacturing expertise to compete with Tesla in AI.

XPeng has received a permit in Guangzhou for remote testing of its Robotaxi without a safety driver. The vehicle uses in-house Turing processors and operates on approved urban roads. The company aims to start passenger service in 2027. XPeng's architecture supports both L2 driver-assist and L4 Robotaxi development, but capabilities differ. The test focuses on remote redundancy, safety, and handling rare road situations.

Chinese automakers Xpeng, Chery, BYD, and others are investing in humanoid robot development. Xpeng's robotics division raised $900 million, valuing it at $6.3 billion. The company's Iron robot aims for commercial use. Competitors and global firms are also advancing robotics. Xpeng's advantage lies in manufacturing, but AI development remains a challenge.