China Launches Major AI Robot Base In Hangzhou
The new National Pilot Base for Embodied AI Applications features more than 130 robots operating across over 30 real-world scenarios, including catering, retail, industrial inspections, fruit picking and underground operations.
The launch comes as China rapidly expands investment in humanoid robots, which Beijing has identified as a strategic technology sector under its 15th Five-Year Plan (2026–2030).
China Pushes Real-World AI Applications
The project is designed to bring together robotics firms, AI developers and industrial suppliers into a single collaborative platform.
According to Li Xingteng, deputy general manager of the base’s operating company, China’s robotics sector still faces fragmentation, with many firms specialising only in areas such as motion control or robotic arms.
“The pilot base aims to develop a platform that fosters deep collaboration,” Li said, adding that the goal is to turn separate technological strengths into an integrated ecosystem.
Hangzhou Emerges As Robotics Hub
Hangzhou has become one of China’s biggest centres for robotics and embodied AI development.
The city is home to more than 700 companies linked to the embodied robotics industry chain, including Unitree Robotics, one of China’s best-known quadruped robot makers.
According to official figures, Hangzhou’s embodied robotics sector generated more than 106 billion yuan ($15.6 billion) in output value in 2025.
The city now accounts for over 80 percent of China’s quadruped robot companies and more than half of the country’s humanoid robot firms.
Beijing Eyes Global AI Competition
Chinese researchers and officials increasingly view embodied AI — systems that combine artificial intelligence with physical machines — as the next major phase of AI development beyond chatbots and virtual systems.
Officials say the sector could drive breakthroughs in chips, operating systems and industrial automation.
Wang Yaonan, a member of the Chinese Academy of Engineering, said stronger industrial coordination and technological progress would accelerate innovation in robotics and embodied intelligence.
The launch also reflects China’s broader effort to compete with the United States and other major powers in advanced AI industries as governments worldwide race to commercialise humanoid robots and automation technologies.
