In a significant leap for automotive sales and customer interaction, Mornine, a humanoid robot standing 1.67 meters tall and weighing 65 kilograms, has begun its role in a Chery automobile 4S store in Malaysia. This innovation represents a blend of advanced robotics and customer service, as Mornine professionally introduces and recommends the latest car models to clients, embodying the future of retail experiences.

Equipped with state-of-the-art technology including 3D lidar, a panoramic camera, and a large language model, Mornine is designed to autonomously navigate its environment and respond to consumer inquiries in real-time. This capability not only enhances customer engagement but also exemplifies how robotics can streamline the sales process in the automobile sector.

The introduction of Mornine follows the delivery of 220 similar humanoid robots developed by Moga Technology Co., Ltd, a subsidiary of Chery, to clients around the world in late April. These robots are initially being utilized in automotive stores, with plans to expand their deployment to various public service venues such as supermarkets, and eventually into private homes.

This rapid evolution in China's robotics landscape is fueled by advancements in artificial intelligence and large language models. The shift from theoretical research to practical applications marks a pivotal moment in the industry, suggesting a future characterized by a burgeoning market. By 2030, the Chinese humanoid robot sector is projected to reach an impressive market value of 870 billion yuan, approximately 121 billion U.S. dollars.

Liu Hong, director of the State Key Laboratory of Robotics and Systems, stated that the merging of AI, 5G communication, and brain-inspired computing is propelling robotics into an era of embodied intelligence. This technological synergy is vital for addressing the complexities involved in robotics applications across various domains.

In addition to Mornine, other Chinese robotics firms are making strides in the field. EngineAI, for example, launched two robot models on an e-commerce platform, including the flagship PM01, which features 24 degrees of freedom and is capable of executing intricate movements. This versatility allows the PM01 to serve in various capacities, including assisting police in patrol duties and supporting sectors such as education, security, and firefighting.

Furthermore, the industrial applications of robotics are gaining momentum. Five Kuavo humanoid robots developed by Leju Robotics have been introduced into production lines at FAW Hongqi, significantly enhancing logistics operations. These bipedal robots are adept at navigating confined spaces and handling tasks such as transporting containers, which is crucial for improving workflow efficiency.

Investment in the smart robotics industry is robust across different regions in China. Hefei, the capital of Anhui Province, has allocated a 10-billion-yuan fund to stimulate its robotics sector, and similar initiatives are being seen in provinces like Guangdong, Sichuan, and Shanxi. The focus on intelligent technology is underscored by Hefei's goal to generate over 50 billion yuan in output value from its robotics sector by 2024.

Despite advancements, the smart robotics industry grapples with challenges. Experts highlight that the mass application of these technologies is hindered by underdeveloped robotic intelligence and limited application scenarios. Collaborative endeavors are necessary to create shared technological platforms and a robust ecosystem that supports the expansion and versatility of robotics in various sectors.