Chinese EV maker Xpeng to launch robotaxis, humanoid robots with self-developed AI chips

Xpeng, the Chinese electric vehicle manufacturer, is set to introduce its robotaxi fleet next year, a significant shift from its previous stance on the feasibility of such a venture. The announcement was made during the company’s 'AI Day' event, where it also revealed its latest humanoid robot model. Headquartered in Guangzhou, Xpeng aims to transcend its identity as merely an electric car producer, paralleling the innovative strides of rival Tesla. The automaker disclosed plans to launch three distinct robotaxi models powered by its proprietary 'Turing' AI chips, which the company claims boast the highest in-car computing power globally, reaching 3,000 TOPS. These advanced chips are integral to Xpeng's 'vision-language-action (VLA)' AI model, which enhances its capabilities in autonomous driving and robotics. In a strategic partnership with Alibaba, Xpeng will integrate its robotaxis with AutoNavi, Alibaba's digital mapping arm, and the Amaps app, which includes ride-hailing services. The robotaxis will feature external displays on the sun visors to relay information such as speed. Testing for these vehicles is slated to commence in Guangzhou and other cities across China next year. Co-president Brian Gu indicated that while the global adoption of robotaxis is on the horizon, regulatory challenges could delay widespread implementation. Gu previously expressed skepticism regarding the immediate viability of self-driving taxis, but he noted a shift in perspective due to rapid technological advancements. He stated that the improvements in AI and computing power have instilled confidence that the company is approaching a pivotal moment in robotaxi development. Xpeng envisions two types of robotaxis: one category aimed at commercial use for shared self-driving services, and another for fully autonomous personal vehicles, which could be limited to family use. This announcement aligns with a broader trend among Chinese firms, including Pony.ai, WeRide, and Baidu, which are expanding their self-driving taxi services globally, while Tesla has also launched its robotaxi program in Texas. In addition to its robotaxi ambitions, Xpeng introduced its second-generation humanoid robot, the Iron robot, with plans for mass production next year. CEO He Xiaopeng tempered expectations by suggesting that these robots would not be household staples soon due to high costs, especially in light of China's affordable labor market. Initially, the robots will serve as tour guides and sales assistants within Xpeng facilities. He acknowledged that while Xpeng has been developing certain technologies earlier than Tesla, the latter has been more effective in publicizing its commercialization strategies. Gu emphasized that Xpeng is pursuing technological advancements that bear similarities to Tesla’s initiatives, but also noted their focus on unique projects like flying cars and humanoid robots. With these developments, Xpeng is positioning itself as a formidable player in the evolving landscape of AI and autonomous vehicles.