Humanoid Robots to Build BMW’s Electric Cars; Factory Operations Underway

BMW has commenced testing humanoid robots at its iFACTORY plant located in Leipzig, Germany. This marks a significant step toward Artificial Intelligence (AI)-based manufacturing within the automotive industry. This initiative is part of the company’s broader strategy to integrate advanced robotics and AI into vehicle production—specifically in the assembly of electric vehicles. The robots currently undergoing testing include AEON, developed by Hexagon Robotics.

Features of the AEON Robot

The AEON robot stands approximately 1.65 meters tall and weighs about 60 kilograms. It navigates using wheels, enabling it to move quickly and effortlessly across the factory floor. BMW is utilizing this robot to assist with tasks such as battery assembly, tightening screws, and handling components used in high-voltage EV batteries. Repetitive and physically demanding tasks can now be executed with robotic assistance.

The robot is equipped with 22 sensors, including cameras and microphones. This array allows it to analyze its immediate surroundings and effectively avoid obstacles. It operates on NVIDIA Jetson Orin computing hardware, which processes data and powers its AI-driven motion system. BMW has conceptualized this vision as “Physical AI”—a framework that integrates digital intelligence with machines capable of interacting directly with the real world in real time.

This project was launched following a 10-month pilot testing phase at BMW’s Spartanburg factory in the USA, where the robot handled over 90,000 parts and assisted in the production of approximately 30,000 vehicles. BMW is testing this technology, with further tests scheduled to take place soon; a major pilot program is expected to launch later this year. Humanoid robots could soon become a common sight in automobile factories.