Automakers' Robots Take 'Business Trips' to 2026 World Robot Conference

Several Chinese automakers, including GAC, Chery, and Dongfeng, sent their robots on a 'business trip' to the 2026 World Robot Conference (WRC) in Beijing, just as the Chengdu Auto Show was underway. This unusual move highlights how automakers are entering the robotics race with a distinct edge: their access to real-world scenarios as testing grounds.

Unlike tech companies that prioritize fundamental R&D, automakers can apply robotics directly to production and service environments. GAC's incubated company, HuiLun Tech, unveiled its fourth-generation wheeled humanoid robot at the WRC, showcasing the fusion of advanced mobility and AI capabilities.

The WRC serves as a key platform for automakers to display their robotic innovations, reflecting the growing convergence of the automotive and robotics sectors. As robots increasingly take on roles in factories and daily life, automakers are leveraging their manufacturing expertise and application scenarios to lead in practical deployment.