Full Breakdown
Chery Launches Humanoid Robot for Public Sale in China
4/15/2026, 1:03:22 AM
Introduction to the Morine M1 Humanoid Robot
Chinese car manufacturer Chery has made a significant advancement in robotics by launching its Morine M1 humanoid robot for public sale through its subsidiary, AiMoga. The robot is now available on JD.com, a leading Chinese e-commerce platform, often referred to as the "Amazon of China." The listing for the Morine M1 was made public on April 2, 2026, marking Chery as potentially the first automotive company globally to offer a humanoid robot directly to consumers. The robot is priced at 285,800 yuan (approximately $41,842), while a four-legged robotic dog is available for around 15,800 yuan ($2,313).
Features and Specifications
The Morine M1 humanoid stands 167 cm tall, weighs 70 kg, and boasts 40 degrees of movement. It can walk at a maximum speed of 1 m/s and has the capability to carry objects weighing up to 1.5 kg. The robot is designed to perform dual-hand tasks and can autonomously open car doors. It operates on a 0.7 kWh battery, providing about two hours of functionality after a two-hour charge. Equipped with advanced sensors, including 3D LiDAR and depth cameras, the Morine M1 can navigate and interact with its environment effectively.
Potential Applications and Future Prospects
Chery envisions the Morine M1 playing a crucial role in various commercial settings, particularly in car sales at shopping centers where staffing can be challenging. Lucas Harris, the Chief Operating Officer of Chery Motor Australia, highlighted the potential for robots to reshape the car sales experience, stating that they could serve as non-confrontational assistants for customers. He noted that while the technology is still in its early stages, there are ongoing efforts to identify practical commercial applications, including uses in traffic control by local police in China.
Industry Context and Competition
The introduction of the Morine M1 comes amid a broader trend where global car manufacturers, including Tesla, Hyundai, and Honda, are investing heavily in robotics and artificial intelligence. Chery's move aligns with these industry shifts, as competitors like XPeng have also showcased humanoid robots. However, challenges remain in transitioning from concept to practical application, as evidenced by Elon Musk's recent delays in unveiling Tesla's Optimus Gen 3 humanoid robot.
Criticism and Challenges
Despite the excitement surrounding the Morine M1, there are concerns regarding the commercialization of such technology. Critics point out that while the potential applications are intriguing, the practical implementation and acceptance of humanoid robots in everyday settings are still uncertain. Harris acknowledged that significant work is needed to find viable commercial uses for the technology, emphasizing the ongoing developmental challenges faced by the industry.
Conclusion
Chery's launch of the Morine M1 humanoid robot represents a notable step in the intersection of automotive and robotics industries. As the company explores the commercial viability of its product, the Morine M1 could pave the way for future innovations in how cars are marketed and sold, particularly in environments where traditional staffing models face limitations.
