Changan Invests $31.8 Million in Robotics, Eyes Humanoid Robots Following BYD and Xpeng

TLDRs;

• Changan invests $31.8 million, marking its entry into the automotive humanoid robotics market.
• The automaker plans prototypes and in-vehicle robots, aiming for 2026 public release.
• BYD, Xpeng, and Xiaomi accelerate humanoid robotics, raising industry competition and innovation.
• Component suppliers anticipate surging demand for robotics parts and automotive-grade AI solutions.

Chinese automaker Changan Automobile has announced a US$31.8 million investment in Changan Tianshu Intelligent Robotics Technology, acquiring a 50% stake.

This move signals Changan’s ambitious entry into the rapidly expanding humanoid robot sector, following similar steps taken by rivals such as BYD, Xpeng, and Xiaomi.

The company revealed plans to release prototypes of its self-developed humanoid robots next year, with its first in-vehicle robot expected in the first quarter of 2026. The initiative demonstrates China’s growing focus on combining artificial intelligence with automotive manufacturing, bridging robotics and mobility solutions.

Industry Follows BYD and Xpeng

Changan’s move comes amid a wave of robotics investments by major Chinese automakers. Xpeng recently unveiled its second-generation Iron humanoid robot, which is slated for mass production in 2026.

Similarly, BYD and NIO have begun testing humanoid robots on factory floors, signaling a push to integrate robotics into production and service operations.

Xiaomi has also entered the race by hiring former Tesla engineer Zach Lu Zeyu to lead research and development for dexterous robotic hands. Together, these efforts illustrate a competitive landscape where automakers and tech firms are vying to develop practical and market-ready humanoid robots.

Prototype Ambitions and Technology Gaps

Changan introduced its “Xiao An” prototype, boasting 40 degrees of freedom and more than two hours of battery life. However, the company has not disclosed whether its actuators or AI models are internally developed, licensed, or acquired externally.

The firm has structured its robotics strategy under a “1+N+X” model, one core platform, additional partner tracks, and exploratory projects. While details about partners remain unclear, the move reflects a broader industry trend of incremental development and experimentation in humanoid robotics.

Despite optimism, the National Development and Reform Commission of China has cautioned that the humanoid robotics sector remains immature, warning of potential market bubbles. This highlights both the opportunity and risks associated with the nascent industry.

Component Suppliers Poised for Growth

Changan’s and other automakers’ investments are creating near-term demand for specialized components. For instance, JAC Auto has issued a tender for full-size humanoids with five-finger hands, while FAW has capped a robotics service bid at 2.574 million RMB.

Companies such as Ubtech, Zhonghaida, and Zhongding are already benefiting from rising orders, including IMU sensors, precision gearboxes, and rubber parts for automotive robotics applications. Ubtech projects 1.1 billion RMB in 2025 orders and aims to produce roughly 1,000 humanoids this year.

Experts suggest component manufacturers focus on automotive-grade safety certification and edge AI middleware, essential for operating robots safely around humans and enabling real-time factory intelligence. The growing ecosystem indicates that robotics expansion is not only a technological effort but also a business opportunity for suppliers.

Looking Ahead

Changan’s $31.8 million robotics venture reflects China’s accelerating commitment to humanoid robotics within the automotive sector. With competitors advancing quickly and component demand rising, the next few years may see China become a global leader in the fusion of AI, robotics, and mobility.

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