UBTECH's Walker S1 Robot prepares for mass rollout in Q2

by Lu Keyan

UBTECH Robotics has taken a major step forward with its Walker S1 humanoid robot completing the first phase of practical training at BYD Auto, where it achieved a twofold efficiency increase and a 30% boost in stability. Large-scale delivery is expected in Q2 2025. The Walker S1 has already secured over 500 pre-orders from automakers like Geely, FAW-Volkswagen, and BAIC, as well as firms like Foxconn and SF Express.

As one of the first robot manufacturers globally to conduct factory-based humanoid robot training, UBTECH has tackled challenges like joint stability, software reliability, and motion control. These advancements enable the Walker S1 to perform tasks like sorting and vehicle assembly, further preparing it for industrial deployment. Trials have provided valuable data to improve the robot’s intelligence and adaptability in industrial scenarios.

Speaking to Jiemian News, UBTECH’s Chief Brand Officer Tan Min highlighted the urgent need for these technologies, stating, “Product reliability, price, and deployment timelines are the most urgent concerns for automakers. The labor shortage and high turnover rates in manufacturing make humanoid robots a critical solution.”

At Foxconn, the Walker S1 has completed logistics tasks and is preparing for expanded applications, providing data critical for commercialization.

The humanoid robot industry is shifting from R&D to small-scale production, focusing on refining processes and scaling output. UBTECH and others, like Unitree Robotics, Fourier Robotics, Zhiyuan Robot, have achieved small-batch deliveries, but scaling to mass production will require further innovation.

Alongside its technological advancements, UBTECH announced that key executives, including CTO Xiong Youjun and Executive Director Wang Lin, pledged not to sell shares for 12 months. Founder and CEO Zhou Jian had made a similar commitment earlier, during the stock unlocking period in late December. This move signals management’s confidence in the company’s growth. The announcement helped boost UBTECH’s stock price by over 11% on January 6, following a sharp decline during the stock unlocking period in late December.