Chery Automobile Launches Humanoid Robots for Sale

Chinese automaker Chery Automobile has made waves by becoming one of the first companies to sell humanoid robots directly to consumers.

Their subsidiary, AiMoga, has begun listing the Morin M1 humanoid on JD.com, a prominent Chinese online retailer often referred to as “China’s Amazon.”

This flagship store on the platform opened its doors on April 2nd, albeit quietly.

Advertisements for the AiMoga Morin robot describe it as a “hyperrealistic AI assistant for humans,” emphasizing its value and reliability.

However, the price is quite steep.

The M1 humanoid robot is priced at 285,800 yuan (approximately $41,842), while a quadruped robot dog comes in at around 15,800 yuan (about $2,313).

Chery is considered the first global car manufacturer to offer humanoid robots for public purchase.

So, what can you expect for that hefty price tag?

The specifications reveal that the M1 weighs 70 kg, stands 167 cm tall, and boasts 40 degrees of movement throughout its body.

It has a maximum walking speed of 1 m/s and can handle loads of up to 1.5 kg in its arms.

This humanoid is designed for various tasks, including ambidextrous operations, autonomously opening car doors, and being controlled remotely via VR. These features could make it useful in roles like sales agents, assistants, or receptionists.

With a 0.7 kWh battery, the robot can function for approximately 2 hours after a 2-hour charge.

Equipped with various sensors—like 3D LiDAR and depth cameras—the M1 can effectively navigate and interact with its surroundings.

Chery sees this as a crucial new avenue for future revenue growth.

There’s even talk of introducing the robot to Australia, and it has already made its debut in early 2026.

Chery recently showcased this technology at a local launch event.

Lucas Harris, the Chief Operating Officer for Chery Automobile Australia, mentioned the significant investments being made in AI and robotics, though he noted this area is still in its infancy.

“We’re still in early development, and many efforts are ongoing to identify practical applications,” he remarked in February.

He added that there is some limited use in China, particularly in collaboration with police for traffic management.

The company anticipates that robots may revolutionize how cars are sold, particularly in shopping centers, where finding staff can be tough.

“More cars are being seen in shopping venues, right?” Harris observed.

He expressed the challenges of staffing shopping centers and noted that customers often prefer not to deal with aggressive sales tactics.

Instead, he suggests that robots can provide assistance without the pressure of a salesperson, making the experience less confrontational.

Humanoid sales assistants are becoming increasingly feasible, especially as high-tech robots take on retail roles across China.

Globally, automakers are investing heavily in robotics and AI, signaling a significant shift towards automating assembly lines.

Competitors like XPeng have introduced remarkably human-like robots, even revealing their mechanical interiors. Meanwhile, brands such as Tesla, Hyundai, and Honda are also exploring robot development.

Nonetheless, even major industry players are facing hurdles in transforming imaginative concepts into reality.

For instance, Elon Musk has delayed the release of the anticipated third generation of Optimus, acknowledging that the humanoid robot still requires refinement before hitting the market.