Xpeng Expands into Robotaxis and Humanoid Robots with AI Chips
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Chinese electric vehicle maker Xpeng is set to launch robotaxis and humanoid robots, showcasing its self-developed AI technology. During its recent AI Day, Xpeng unveiled plans for three robotaxi models, powered by its Turing AI chips, boasting a total computing power of 3,000 TOPS, which is claimed to be the highest in the industry.
Xpeng's co-president, Brian Gu, highlighted that these advancements reflect a shift in the company's strategy, marking its evolution from a traditional EV manufacturer to a tech-forward company. According to CNBC, the robotaxis will begin testing in Guangzhou and other Chinese cities next year, aiming for a future where self-driving taxis become a global phenomenon, although Gu cautioned that widespread adoption will take time due to regulatory hurdles.
In a comparison study, Xpeng's new vision-language-action model reportedly required only one human intervention during a test route, while Tesla's Full Self Driving system had seven disengagements, showcasing potential advantages of Xpeng's technology as noted by the South China Morning Post.
Xpeng plans to collaborate with Alibaba's mapping service Amap to facilitate driverless rides, integrating this technology into everyday transportation solutions. Additionally, Xpeng's humanoid robot, named IRON, was also introduced.
The latest iteration features advanced bionic muscles and improved dexterity, enabling it to perform tasks that require physical interaction and conversation. Powered by three Turing AI chips, IRON is designed for commercial applications within Xpeng's operations, including roles as guides and salespeople.
The company is cautious about the broader commercialization of humanoid robots, predicting significant advancements in AI capabilities in the next three to five years for industrial applications and five to ten years for home use, as reported by Electrek.
Furthermore, Xpeng is expanding its technological portfolio with plans for flying cars, branded under ARIDGE, with prototypes already undergoing flight tests. Xpeng's more conservative approach contrasts with its competitors, as they focus on realistic timelines and capabilities rather than overpromising on future technology, ensuring that their innovations are grounded in achievable milestones.
Overall, Xpeng’s strategic moves into the robotics and autonomous driving sectors underscore its ambition to compete with established players like Tesla, as it leverages its proprietary AI technology to redefine its market position.