Xiaomi Tests Humanoid Robots in Electric Vehicle Factory to Boost Automation
Xiaomi has begun testing its self-developed humanoid robots inside its electric vehicle (EV) factory, according to company President Lu Weibing. The initiative highlights Xiaomi’s growing focus on robotics and factory automation as it expands its presence in the electric vehicle industry.
Speaking to CNBC during the Mobile World Congress in Barcelona, Lu revealed that the robots are already capable of performing several tasks on the factory floor.
Humanoid Robots Can Complete Most Tasks Within Hours
According to Lu Weibing, two humanoid robots were able to complete around 90% of assigned tasks in approximately three hours during the trial phase.
The robots are designed to handle various assembly and logistics activities, including:
- Installing nuts and bolts during vehicle assembly
- Transporting materials across the production line
These capabilities demonstrate the potential for humanoid robots to support industrial manufacturing processes.
Keeping Pace With High-Speed EV Production
One of the main challenges when integrating robots into a production environment is ensuring they can match the speed of existing assembly lines.
Lu explained that Xiaomi’s EV factory operates at a rapid pace, with a new vehicle rolling off the assembly line every 76 seconds. Despite this demanding production speed, the two humanoid robots were reportedly able to keep up with the workflow, suggesting they could eventually play a larger role in factory operations.
Robotics to Play a Key Role in Xiaomi’s Future Manufacturing
Lu emphasized that improving factory productivity through humanoid robots is an important long-term objective for Xiaomi.
He noted that in the future, humanoid robots could replace humans in certain repetitive or physically demanding tasks, while also performing activities that may be difficult or unsafe for workers.
CyberOne Robot Introduced in 2022
Xiaomi first introduced its CyberOne humanoid robot in 2022 as part of its broader push into advanced robotics. However, the robot is not currently available for commercial sale.
The technology is still in an early experimental phase, with Xiaomi continuing to explore how humanoid robots can be integrated into real-world industrial environments.
Robots Still in Early Testing Phase
Despite the promising results, Lu stressed that robot deployment in production lines is still at an early stage.
He explained that the robots currently operating in the factory are not yet performing official production roles. Instead, they function more like interns, helping engineers test their capabilities and understand how they can be integrated into future manufacturing systems.
As Xiaomi continues developing its humanoid robotics technology, the company aims to further refine the machines and explore ways they can enhance efficiency in modern factories.
