BMW Group Successfully Tests Humanoid Robot at Spartanburg Plant

The BMW Group has successfully completed a two-week test run of a humanoid robot at its Spartanburg plant in South Carolina, USA. The test operation was conducted in collaboration with Figure, a robotics startup based in California, USA.

Figure’s latest AI-based humanoid robot, ‘Figure 02,’ was used in the body manufacturing process at BMW Group’s Spartanburg plant. The robot was responsible for moving metal parts for vehicles to the correct positions within the facility, demonstrating its ability to work efficiently and accurately.

Figure 02 was able to place parts with millimeter accuracy and move on two legs thanks to its human-like coordination and efficient design. The BMW Group is actively considering using humanoid robots in future vehicle production, as they can protect employees from ergonomically awkward movements or tiring tasks.

Milan Nedeljkovic, BMW AG board member responsible for Production, said: “With this initial test run, the BMW Group is examining in which areas of production humanoid robots can be applied. We want to be part of the process from development to industrialization of robotics technology, which has great potential for development.”

The BMW Group has now withdrawn the humanoid robot from its production processes following the completion of the test run and will work with Figure to improve its future applications based on the test results.