Mercedes-Benz to Introduce Humanoid Robots and AI Software in Manufacturing
Mercedes-Benz is set to revolutionize its US and European manufacturing lines with the introduction of humanoid robots and new artificial intelligence (AI) software. The goal is to streamline processes, increase efficiency, and ultimately save money for the renowned car manufacturer.
The cutting-edge Apollo robots from American company Apptronik, along with AI software from Google DeepMind, are currently undergoing testing at Mercedes-Benz’s Digital Factory Campus located at its factory in Berlin, Germany.
Designed to mimic human actions, the bipedal humanoid robot Apollo is being put to the test for various logistics tasks such as transporting components and assisting workers on the production line. Unlike traditional industrial robots that are stationary and perform repetitive tasks, Apollo has the ability to navigate factory floors and handle a range of different, non-repetitive functions, thereby speeding up manufacturing processes.
Mercedes-Benz is initially deploying Apollo in intra-logistics, where it will be tasked with moving materials between workstations to support human workers. The car manufacturer has also made a significant investment of over £85 million in Apptronik, indicating a deepening partnership that is expected to expand into other areas of manufacturing automation.
Jörg Burzer, Mercedes’ director of production, quality, and supply chain management, emphasized the importance of choosing the right tasks for automation, focusing on those that are repetitive and hazardous to human workers. By training tasks away from the workforce, Mercedes aims to optimize efficiency and safety in its manufacturing processes.
The investment in Apptronik opens up opportunities for Mercedes to leverage the company’s partnership with Google and its groundbreaking DeepMind technology. This collaboration introduces two new AI models, Gemini Robotics and Gemini Robotics Extended Reasoning, both powered by Gemini 2.0 – Google’s most advanced AI model to date. These models extend beyond text and image output, enabling physical actions and commands to control robots effectively.
