Mercedes Launches Pilot Program for Apptronik Humanoid Robots

Pilot Season for Humanoid Robotics Kicks Off: Apptronik Partners with Mercedes-Benz

The exciting world of humanoid robotics has officially entered its pilot season. Last year, Amazon started testing Agility’s Digit robots in select fulfillment centers, and this January, Figure secured a partnership with BMW. Now, Apptronik, an Austin-based robotics startup, is stepping into the spotlight with a notable collaboration with Mercedes-Benz.

As stated by Apptronik, “Through this agreement, we will work together with Mercedes-Benz to explore applications for advanced robotics within their manufacturing processes.” While the exact details of the deal remain under wraps, this is typical for such agreements. It’s common for pilot programs to involve a limited number of systems, given the nascent stage of robotics technology.

Nonetheless, these collaborations are seen as beneficial for all involved. Apptronik gains validation from a major automotive player, and Mercedes-Benz signals to its customers and investors that it is committed to innovation. The real impact will depend on the outcome of this pilot program; success could lead to a significant order that would not only boost Apptronik’s reputation but also advance the robotics industry as a whole.

Investor interest in humanoid robotics is surging, highlighted by Figure’s astounding $675 million funding round. The upcoming years will be crucial for these companies as they aim to demonstrate tangible return on investment (ROI).

Figure Surges to a $2.6 Billion Valuation Amid Humanoid Excitement

Regarding the practical applications of these robots on the manufacturing floor, co-founder and CEO Jeff Cardenas explained, “Mercedes plans to employ robotics and Apollo to automate some low-skill, physically demanding manual tasks—an approach likely to be adopted by other organizations in the future.”

The term "low skill" pertains to the types of tasks these robots will undertake. It likely includes moving totes from one location to another—repetitive and physically strenuous work that is both crucial and relatively straightforward to automate. This choice of terminology may also serve to mitigate concerns about the potential displacement of human workers. Humanoids are still some time away from handling complex tasks traditionally performed by humans.

Apptronik, a spinout from the University of Austin, is best known for its contributions to NASA’s Valkyrie humanoid robot.

This emerging landscape of humanoid robotics, with key players like Apptronik and Mercedes-Benz, sets the stage for transformative innovations in manufacturing and beyond.