Will Humans No Longer Be Needed to Make Robots?

Chinese electric vehicle manufacturer XPeng has taken a significant step in humanoid robot manufacturing by launching what it describes as a first-of-its-kind production facility where robots are used to make robots. Located in Guangzhou, the facility is designed to automate more than 80% of the robot manufacturing process. XPeng has also released a video showing its first “Iron” robot completing assembly and independently walking off the production line, drawing widespread attention online.

The facility combines human workers, machines and automated systems, with more than 80% of the manufacturing process handled by automation, according to XPeng. The company said it is applying its experience in electric vehicle manufacturing to robot production. XPeng aims to significantly scale up production of its Iron robots by the end of this year and plans to expand their supply across China and international markets in 2027.