Robots & AI
+ FollowTrack robots and AI developments in China and beyond. This category collects coverage of artificial intelligence and robotics — from humanoid robots and embodied AI to large language models, automakers' moves into the field, and the companies and breakthroughs driving the race. As carmakers and tech giants expand beyond vehicles, here's where you'll find the latest on the robots and AI shaping the future.
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Tesla audits China suppliers to push Optimus into mass production, report says
Several Chinese suppliers have already secured Optimus orders and will start production soon after passing the audits.
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Dongfeng to trial-produce humanoid robots by year-end, targets human-level capability by end of 2027
Dongfeng's humanoid robot will enter factories in October to handle sorting and quality inspection, with small-batch trial production to begin at the end of the year.
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Xiaomi's L3 autonomous driving lead exits for physical AI, joining auto executive exodus
Wang Naiyan has left to launch a physical AI venture, becoming the latest core tech talent from China's auto industry to enter the emerging field.
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Xpeng Iron reportedly shifts to semi-solid batteries as all-solid-state tech lags
Xpeng Iron will use high-energy solid-liquid hybrid batteries, reflecting delays in the commercialization of all-solid-state technology.
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BYD deepens PaXini ties, opens auto factories to robots
BYD will provide complex auto manufacturing environments and real-world operating data for robot validation and model iteration.
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Li Auto reportedly hires world-model expert to bolster robot AI push
The expert will oversee robot foundation-model development, with the team planned to remain below 50 people.
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Leapmotor confirms move into embodied robotics, says details coming soon
Leapmotor believes that as an NEV maker with in-house R&D capabilities, it is well positioned to develop embodied robots.
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Wall Street sees Xpeng robot financing as catalyst for value unlock
Several Wall Street banks believe that external capital has established an independent valuation benchmark for Xpeng's robotics business.
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Nio reportedly to invest in embodied AI startup founded by Ren Shaoqing, who will remain smart-driving chief
Nio plans to make a strategic investment in the physical AI and embodied intelligence company founded by Ren and collaborate with it.
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Xpeng carves out robotics business at $6.3 billion post‑money valuation
Dogotix has secured $900 million in funding commitments, with $600 million from external investors including IDG Capital, Alibaba, Tencent and Gaorong Ventures.
