BMW deploys Figure 03 humanoid robot for logistics at its Spartanburg plant

BMW Group is expanding its "physical artificial intelligence" program by introducing the third‑generation humanoid robot, Figure 03, into the Spartanburg, South Carolina plant. The robot, developed by Figure AI, is equipped with tactile sensors in its hands, soft safety components, wireless charging and speech‑to‑speech communication, allowing it to converse with human workers.

In its new role, Figure 03 performs sequencing tasks: it retrieves parts from large containers, sorts them into dedicated trays and delivers them just‑in‑time to assembly lines. This shift from earlier models that handled body‑in‑white and battery‑module work aims to reduce ergonomic strain on employees and increase precision in high‑volume logistics operations. The deployment is part of BMW’s broader iFactory strategy, which integrates digital AI systems such as AIQX to monitor quality and simulate production in a virtual factory before physical execution. Earlier trials of the Figure series were conducted at BMW’s Leipzig facility with the Aeon robot, and the Figure 02 model contributed to the production of more than 30,000 BMW X3 vehicles.