Humanoid Robots Set for Crowd Control Trials in China

Humanoid robots are on the verge of being tested for crowd control and guidance at a significant border crossing in China. The Shenzhen-based company, UBTech Robotics, has been awarded a considerable contract to provide the latest models for a pilot project close to the border with Vietnam. This initiative is part of a broader national strategy to incorporate cutting-edge robotics into public services and manage borders effectively.

Details of the Contract and Testing

The contract, worth US$37 million (approximately Rs 330 Crore), was secured in collaboration with a specialized humanoid robotics testing facility. The project will predominantly utilise UBTech’s Walker robots, equipped with a self-sufficient power system that enables them to autonomously change their batteries. The primary objective is to evaluate the practical, real-world uses of humanoid robots, which include aiding border management tasks, assisting travellers, and managing general logistics. The rollout of these robots is set to commence in December.

China’s Ambitious Strategy in Robotics

This project aligns perfectly with Beijing’s aggressive ambition to spearhead the global robotics market. The government has fervently encouraged local companies to develop humanoid robots as part of its broader technological initiative. Industry analysis from consulting firm Leaderobot highlights this national goal, estimating that the humanoid robotics sector in China is expected to reach ¥82 billion by 2025, potentially representing half of the global sales figures.

Technological Milestones and Challenges

Despite recent technological advancements, including a remarkable 100km journey completed by a robot from Shanghai, widespread, functional applications of such technology have been somewhat limited. The objective of this border trial is to close that gap by offering a vital commercial application. Nevertheless, some financial experts have cautioned that the sector is facing potential risks related to overcapacity, pointing out that production is rapidly increasing without sufficient confirmed commercial demand.