BMW plans to introduce humanoid robots into vehicle production at its Leipzig factory in Germany, marking the first use of such robots in its European operations, the BBC reported.
The Aeon robots, developed by Sweden-based Hexagon Robotics, are currently being tested and are expected to begin production work this summer.
Unlike traditional industrial robots, humanoid robots can operate in existing workspaces designed for people, reducing the need for costly factory redesigns. BMW intends to use the Aeon robots for tasks such as supplying parts to manufacturing equipment and handling components during battery assembly.
The robots are trained using simulation technology, AI-driven reinforcement learning and human-guided demonstrations. According to Hexagon Robotics, advances in imitation learning have significantly reduced the time required to train robots for new tasks.
BMW says the technology could help address labor shortages and support workers by taking over repetitive or physically demanding jobs. Other automakers, including Toyota, Hyundai and Xiaomi, are also exploring the use of humanoid robots in production environments.
