XPeng has started production of its IRON humanoid robot at a dedicated manufacturing facility, with the first unit completing the production process and walking off the line autonomously. The Chinese electric vehicle manufacturer plans to move the robot into mass production by the end of this year, followed by a wider commercial launch in 2027.
The company said the facility marks its transition from prototype development to production-line manufacturing for humanoid robots. More than 80% of the core manufacturing processes at the facility are automated, according to XPeng.
XPeng is applying manufacturing processes and quality-control systems developed for its electric vehicle operations to the production of humanoid robots. The production lines are designed to support higher manufacturing volumes and allow capacity to be expanded as commercial deployment increases.
IRON is being developed as a general-purpose humanoid robot for use across different applications. The robot has 76 degrees of freedom across its body and 21 degrees of freedom in each hand, allowing it to perform articulated movements and object-manipulation tasks.
The robot uses three of XPeng’s Turing AI chips, providing up to 2,250 TOPS of computing performance. XPeng said this allows its Physical AI foundation model to run directly on the robot rather than relying on remote operation. The company is developing the system to perform tasks autonomously while processing data locally.
IRON uses a fully enclosed flexible lattice structure intended to provide a human-like external form while covering its mechanical components. XPeng is positioning the platform for applications in commercial and everyday environments, although it has not specified the full range of tasks that will be available when the product reaches the market.
Initial deployments are planned for XPeng’s own stores and campuses. The company intends to begin commercial deliveries in China and overseas markets in 2027.
Chairman and CEO He Xiaopeng said XPeng intends to increase production speed and manufacturing scale as development continues. “Looking ahead, XPENG will continue to explore faster production rhythms and greater scale in robot manufacturing,” he said.
Robotics forms part of XPeng’s broader Physical AI strategy alongside its automotive business. The company is developing a common AI technology base that can be used across vehicles and humanoid robots.
XPeng’s robotics business has also entered into share purchase agreements with multiple investors for more than $900 million in financing, at a post-money valuation of more than $6.3 billion. The company expects the funding to support the development, manufacturing and commercialization of its robotics operations.
