UBTech ships hundreds of humanoid robots to Chinese factories
Shenzhen-based UBTech Robotics has shipped hundreds of its Walker S2 humanoid robots to industrial partners across China, marking what the company claims is the world's first mass delivery of human-shaped robots for factory work. The shipment, completed in mid-November, represents a pivotal moment in the commercialization of humanoid robotics as China races to dominate an industry that could reshape global manufacturing.
The delivery follows a dramatic November 12 announcement by UBTech, accompanied by video footage showing rows of assembled robots at the company's factory. The robots are being deployed to automotive and logistics giants, including BYD, Geely Auto, FAW-Volkswagen, Dongfeng Liuzhou Motor, and Foxconn, where they will perform tasks ranging from parts assembly to material handling.
Race to Deployment Intensifies
UBTech's achievement comes as competition in humanoid robotics accelerates. Tesla CEO Elon Musk recently revealed plans to deploy one million Optimus robots as part of an ambitious compensation milestone, though the company is still building prototypes at its Fremont facility. Meanwhile, Foxconn announced it will deploy Nvidia-powered humanoid robots at its Houston AI server plant within months.
The Walker S2's distinguishing feature is its autonomous battery-swapping system, which allows the robot to replace its own power pack in approximately three minutes without human intervention. This capability enables continuous 24/7 operation, addressing a critical requirement for factory environments where downtime translates directly to lost productivity.
China's Strategic Push
UBTech has secured orders exceeding 800 million yuan, approximately $113 million, for its Walker series this year. The company aims to deliver 500 units by year-end and reports that humanoid robots now account for 30 percent of its sales, up from just 10 percent in 2024. UBTech's stock has surged more than 150 percent this year, with analysts from Citi and JPMorgan maintaining buy ratings.
The deployment aligns with China's national strategy to dominate humanoid robotics by 2027, supported by regional initiatives like Shenzhen's action plan targeting over 100 billion yuan in robotics-related industries. As China faces a shrinking working-age population and rising labor costs, government officials view humanoid robots as essential to maintaining manufacturing competitiveness and addressing demographic challenges
