Go Figure: BMW taps androids for auto plant work

BMW will use humanoid robots from startup Figure to automate manufacturing tasks at its South Carolina SUV plant. The partnership marks Figure's first commercial deal since its 2022 founding to build versatile and safe humanoid assistants.

Starting small then potentially expanding, the robots will train over 12-24 months for jobs like welding, materials handling and warehousing before BMW evaluates their contribution to the plant’s productivity. Learn more about BMW’s decision to join the likes of Honda and Hyundai in experimenting with human-like robots in today’s Must Read.

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Figure’s machines encapsulate advanced artificial intelligence software within an anthropomorphic frame that can adapt via context learning to learn new skills. Movable hands and thumbs with bipedal motion allow dexterity and mobility akin to humans across various environments at the BMW plant. The robots offer capabilities approaching our own, both physically and cognitively.

Other automakers are also exploring automation using humanoid robot designs. But debates continue around the potential risks as intelligent machines work more closely with people. Figure notes its robots collaborate with people rather than replace them, taking on repetitive and unsafe jobs so human team members can focus on higher-level contributions. Still, widespread adoption remains uncertain at this time, despite surging investor interest. 

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