Li Auto Challenges Tesla with Plans for Humanoid Robots

One of Tesla’s closest Chinese competitors, Li Auto, has announced a strategic shift towards artificial intelligence and the production of humanoid robots, according to SCMP.

This decision aligns with mainland China’s policy of prioritizing innovation in robotics to stimulate the economy amidst the rapid development of artificial intelligence. 

Li Auto aims to position its AI model among the top three in China within a few years, ready to compete with major tech firms beyond the automotive industry. 

The company’s CEO, Li Xiang, mentioned the upcoming launch of a mobile app for the AI assistant Lixiang Tongxue, based on their proprietary Mind GPT model.

Xiang noted Tesla’s focus on developing Optimus and emphasized that his firm plans to produce humanoid robots. This initiative will be realized once the company achieves Level 4 autonomous driving—where vehicles can handle most driving situations independently but still require human intervention in some cases. 

Li Auto plans to reach this milestone within three years. 

The company is keen to attract talented specialists for extensive AI development, allocating more than half of its budget to research and development. 

In November, China began deploying a robot police officer—a round, armed AI device resembling a large bowling ball.

In July, SAS and Coleman Parkes identified China as a leader in the adoption of generative artificial intelligence.