Chinese EV makers pivot to humanoid robotics amid market slowdown

Chinese electric vehicle (EV) manufacturers are diversifying into the humanoid robotics sector as the domestic EV market faces slowing growth and intense competition. Companies such as XPeng, Nio, Xiaomi, Li Auto, and Geely are expanding their technological footprints to establish new growth curves and reshape their market valuations.

XPeng has introduced its IRON humanoid platform, which features 76 degrees of freedom in the body and 21 in each hand to enhance dexterity. The robot utilizes a textile-covered composite framework designed to provide a more familiar and less hostile presence.

According to Counterpoint Research, Chinese automakers account for more than half of the approximately 20 global companies currently involved in in-house humanoid robot development. This strategic shift comes as profitability in China’s vehicle manufacturing sector remains low, with average profit margins standing at 1.5% in the first half of 2026.