During a recent demonstration at a mall in Shenzhen, China, XPeng’s humanoid robot, known as Iron, experienced an unexpected mishap. As it showcased its bipedal capabilities, the robot executed a series of movements before twisting awkwardly and falling face-first onto the floor, creating a notable thud that caught the attention of onlookers.
Footage of the incident quickly spread across social media, prompting a mix of amusement and concern. Observers noted that it took three individuals to assist in removing the 154-pound, five-foot-eight robot from the scene, as some audience members chuckled at the spectacle. Many netizens used this moment to highlight that Iron was not simply a human in disguise, as speculated by some upon its initial unveiling.
In a response to the viral footage, He Xiaopeng, co-founder and CEO of XPeng, addressed the situation on Weibo, likening the robot’s fall to the learning process of toddlers. “After a fall, they will stand firm; the next step is to begin running, and to keep running,” he commented. This statement reflects the company’s commitment to learning from setbacks in its technological journey.
Challenges in Humanoid Robotics
XPeng is not the only company facing difficulties in maintaining stability with bipedal robots. Other firms have also encountered similar issues. For instance, a recent viral clip showed a teleoperator inadvertently causing the Tesla Optimus robot to fall after removing their headset. In November, another video showcased the Russian humanoid robot AIdol stumbling during a performance.
Despite these challenges, advancements have been made in the field. Chinese manufacturer Unitree has developed its G1 robot to withstand significant challenges, demonstrating resilience in various scenarios. Most notably, a G1 robot recently completed 130,000 steps across a frigid landscape in northern China, mapping out the Winter Olympics logo while enduring temperatures as low as -52 degrees Fahrenheit.
XPeng aims to initiate large-scale mass production of Iron before the end of the year, despite the recent setback. The company continues to push forward, embodying a spirit of innovation and resilience.
As the robotics industry evolves, the incidents surrounding humanoid robots serve as reminders of the complexities involved in achieving lifelike movement and functionality. The balance between ambition and practicality remains a crucial aspect of technological advancement in this intriguing field.
