GAC Group's second-gen embodied intelligent robot makes debut at 2024 PBCIFC

Shanghai (Gasgoo)- GAC Group showcased its self-developed second-generation embodied intelligent robot at the 2024 Pearl Bay International Climate Investment and Financing Conference (PBCIFC) held on December 8 and 9, according to a post on GAC R&D Center's WeChat account.

GAC Group's  second-generation embodied intelligent robot; photo credit: GAC R&D Center

"Embodied intelligence" refers to intelligent systems with physical forms which can interact with the physical world. This concept represents a cutting-edge development trend in artificial intelligence. GAC Group said its third-generation robotics has undergone the R&D phase, and a new humanoid robot is scheduled for official release by the end of this year.

Apart from exceptional mobility and precise operational skills, embodied robots are capable of continuously learning and evolving through interaction with their environments.

Mr. Liu Jujiang, head of the Forward-Looking Technology Department at GAC R&D Center, explained that as part of GAC Group's development strategy, GAC R&D Center began working on the R&D of embodied intelligent robots as early as 2022.

To achieve its vision of "continuously creating value for human's better mobility life", GAC has mapped out a multi-scenario mobility system, encompassing three-dimensional transportation, ground mobile travel, and indoor-outdoor mobility.

Specifically, GAC R&D Center has developed flying vehicles for three-dimensional transportation, and launched passenger and commercial vehicles for ground mobile travel. The last-mile indoor/outdoor mobility services are supported by robotics. GAC is capitalizing on its autonomous driving technology to create manned mobile robots.

Mr. Liu introduced that by leveraging its mature supply chain for intelligent connected new energy veicles, GAC has repurposed automotive-grade components like chips and LiDAR for robotics. This approach lowers R&D costs and ensures high performance and premium quality, meeting stringent automotive standards.

Liu also revealed that the development of intelligent robots stems from GAC Group's insight into human lifestyles and foresight of future needs. He believes that the invention of the wheel marked a significant step in improving efficiency, and the combination of wheeled legs with humanoid robotic arms offers the best solution for intelligent robots. From simple household chores to complex industrial operations, intelligent robots can handle it all.

This year, an increasing number of companies and research institutions have come to realize that only by being market-oriented can intelligent robots truly achieve a sustainable commercial cycle. In the manufacturing industry, enterprises are actively introducing intelligent robots to improve production efficiency and product quality.

As for automotive manufacturing, intelligent robots play a critical role in welding, assembly, and other processes, accelerating production speed and enhancing overall vehicle quality. Based on market demand for automotive output and quality increases, companies continue to optimize the performance and functionality of robots, creating a positive cycle from R&D, manufacturing to application.

Dr. Zhang Aimin, head of GAC's robotics R&D team, introduced that the new embodied intelligent robot features a variable wheeled leg structure capable of all-terrain mobility, with two-wheeled and four-wheeled modes available. It is equipped with a dexterous hand system that includes visual and tactile sensors, as well as force feedback capabilities, allowing it to serve in multiple scenarios. The robot also integrates large-scale artificial intelligence (AI) models, enabling remote and local control, as well as autonomous operation. It is equipped with an electric drive system offering a battery life of over six hours.

GAC Group's  second-generation embodied intelligent robot; photo credit: GAC R&D Center

Dr. Zhang explained that GAC's embodied intelligent robot, driven by market demand, incorporates a variable wheeled leg configuration to balance the efficiency of wheels and the flexibility of legs. To address the vulnerability of the dexterous hand in practical use, the R&D team has developed a "rigid-flexible combined structure" that significantly improves the durability of dexterous hands.

Dr. Zhang added that it will take a long time for purely AI-controlled embodied intelligent robots to land, given the current AI capability. That is why GAC Group has adopted a "remote control+AI-end autonomous" model, which is expected to facilitate faster real-world application of embodied intelligent robots.

Zhang indicated that embodied intelligent robots involve cutting-edge technologies such as sensor systems, control systems, and AI algorithms. Mastering these core technologies is crucial for maintaining a competitive edge in the future market. Thus, GAC's robotics R&D team has opted for full-stack in-house development of key components to ensure control over core technologies while keeping costs manageable.

Beyond the R&D, GAC Group has established a comprehensive presence in robotics sector spanning production, operation, and application.