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China has started using an AI robot to work as traffic cop

Published on Dec 04, 2025 at 1:05 AM (UTC+4)
by Keelin McNamara

Last updated on Dec 03, 2025 at 4:55 PM (UTC+4)
Edited by Amelia Jean Hershman-Jones

China is officially using an AI robot as a traffic cop in one of its cities.

And the results are actually pretty spectacular.

Videos of the new AI robot have been going viral.

Could it be the future of traffic cops on the streets?

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Chinese AI robot works as a traffic cop in major city

China is known as a nation that innovates.

But this latest innovation is one of the craziest that you’ll ever see.

Today’s story comes to you from the city of Hangzhou.

And it features a completely autonomous, AI-powered robot.

But this AI robot is doing something totally different.

That is because it is actually controlling real-world traffic.

Yes, you read that right.

This isn’t some laboratory test or hypothetical scenario.

This is an AI robot actually doing the real thing.

The AI-powered unit is named the ‘Hangxing No.1’.

Could this be the first of a whole fleet?

You might be wondering how it actually works.

Hangxing No. 1 uses a variety of sensors and automated alerts.

It then uses these systems to guide real-world traffic.

The AI robot also guides pedestrians and traffic on busy streets in the city.

December 1st saw the new member of the traffic cops start their duty.

Authorities stationed the Hangxing No. 1 on the busy Binsheng Road.

And residents were quick to spot the machine’s impressive skills.

The robot is able to perform clear hand signals for traffic, blow a whistle, and identify traffic violations.

This AI robot recently started work as a member of the traffic cops in China
Jackson Hinkle/X

It is then able to issue polite audio reminders on the spot.

The robot was developed entirely in Hangzhou through a partnership between the traffic police and local tech companies.

It has been tested at multiple locations in Binjiang since October.

Of course, this AI robot is very much a working prototype.

But the local police department is reportedly expanding an entire fleet of robotic traffic cops.

Hangxing No. 1 might be the first, but it also might not be the last, either.

Keelin McNamara is a content writer at Supercar Blondie from Ireland, covering cars, technology, and lifestyle. Despite being a Law graduate, he discovered his passion for journalism during the COVID-19 pandemic, and has worked in the industry ever since. Outside of work, he is an avid MotoGP fan, and is a self-confessed addict of the sport.