Chinese car maker to use humanoids in manufacturing process
- One car manufacturer in China is bringing robots into the factory
- These humanoids will be taking on assembling tasks at Dongfeng
- China is the largest robotics market in the world
Published on Jun 05, 2024 at 8:17 AM (UTC-4)
by Ben Thompson
Last updated on Jun 06, 2024 at 5:57 AM (UTC-4)
Edited by
Tom Wood
Chinese car manufacturer Dongfeng Motors is set to use humanoid robots to help make cars.
When people say that robots are coming for our jobs, they’re not always joking.
We’re seeing the effects of automation all over the world, and China is no exception.
Where are the humanoid robots going to be working?
Chinese state-owned Dongfeng Motor is partnering up with robotic firm UBTech to automate its manufacturing process.
The Walker S humanoid robot will be carrying out different tasks on Dongfeng Motor’s production lines.
This will include safety belt inspections, door lock testing, body quality testing, oil filling, and label application.
The robot will be integrated with traditional machinery to handle more complex scenarios.
Walker S, a robot that is 1.7m (5 foot 5 inches) tall, communicates with the factory’s system and shares collected data in real time.
Through hands-on training, the robots are expected to enhance their capabilities in assembling components.
Currently, automaker Nio already uses them in their manufacturing plants.
Lin Changbo, the General Manager at Dongfeng Motor, said of the development: “This will not only bring greater improvement to Dongfeng Motor’s intelligent manufacturing level, but will also become a new style of intelligent manufacturing in the automotive industry.
“[It] will accelerate the scene-based and large-scale application of humanoid robots in the automotive industry.”
Why is Dongfeng choosing to use robots?
The humanoid robot has many qualities which make it a valuable asset on the factory floor.
It has vision cameras and depth sensors that allow it to navigate the environment, whilst its capacity to recognize 3D objects allows for obstacle avoidance.
Human-like hands allow them to take on jobs involving the manipulation of materials.
Walker S can carry 3 kilograms in each hand.
China is reported to have 12 times more robots within its workforce than experts predicted, making it the largest robotics market in the world.
It’s estimated that automation could boost global productivity growth by 0.8 to 1.4 percent annually.
Ben joined Supercar Blondie in February 2025 after being published by international organizations including LADbible, The Sun, the New York Post, and the Daily Mail. He covers supercars, rare and collectible vehicles, aviation, luxury assets, and the fascinating people behind them. His reporting has explored everything from seven-figure supercars and historic Ferrari collections to unusual aircraft adventures and extraordinary automotive discoveries from around the world. Ben has also gained first-hand insight into vehicle craftsmanship and customization, including visiting specialist workshops to see bespoke vehicles up close.
