Changan Automobile is charting a bold course into the future, envisioning a world where robots are integral to every aspect of the automotive industry. At the 22nd China Auto Industry Development (TEDA) International Forum, Tan Huan, Chief Expert at Changan Automobile and General Manager of Changan Tianshu Intelligent Robot Company, outlined a transformative vision.
The ‘Car Robot’ Era
Huan emphasized that Artificial Intelligence (AI) is spearheading a fundamental renovation of infrastructure, with physical embodiment and intelligence at its core. He predicts that future vehicles will evolve into ‘car robots’ – complex intelligent entities capable of self-learning, self-organization, and self-evolution.
Changan’s Robotics Roadmap
Changan Automobile’s strategy for integrating robotics is multi-phased. Initially, the company aims to achieve componentization of automotive parts such as cabins, central control systems, and armrests. This will pave the way for intelligent mobility ecosystem robots, designed to handle tasks across various segments including transportation, logistics, cleaning, energy storage, and charging.
Beyond these operational roles, Changan plans to extend the capabilities of these robots into more demanding environments. This includes applications in inspection, security, and firefighting, showcasing their versatility and robustness.
A Comprehensive Robotics Ecosystem
The overarching logic driving Changan’s robotics initiative is a closed-loop system. The company intends to use robots to manufacture cars, sell cars, and integrate robots directly into vehicles. Ultimately, the goal is to achieve a state where robots can build other robots, and from there, manufacture all kinds of goods.
In practical terms, this translates to robots operating in 4S dealerships, assisting with sales and servicing the broader commercial society. When integrated into vehicles, these robots will enhance componentization and intelligence, transforming cars into sophisticated intelligent bodies and eventually, fully autonomous intelligent entities.
Furthermore, Changan sees these robots playing a crucial role in the wider mobility ecosystem. They are expected to extend their reach into commercial applications, specialized industrial sectors, home environments, offices, and retail spaces, thereby constructing a comprehensive intelligent mobility industry ecosystem.
Changan Tianshu: The Driving Force
This strategic push is being spearheaded by Changan Tianshu Intelligent Robot Company, which was formally established in April of this year. The company’s mission is to ‘reshape the mobility ecosystem with embodied intelligence,’ signaling a deep commitment to leveraging robotics and AI for the future of transportation.
The development marks a significant step for Changan, positioning the company at the forefront of a new wave of automotive innovation driven by intelligent robotics and AI integration.
