What the Market Says About Humanoids and Who Is Bringing Them to the Industry?

Recent moves by major automotive brands indicate a positive stance toward the broader implementation of humanoid robots in their operations. This can be implied from the numerous pilot projects launched to assess the integration of humanoid robots into manufacturing processes. These projects are currently conducted in collaboration with a handful of technology providers capable of delivering the required products. Key humanoid robots in use include Apollo by Apptronik, deployed at Mercedes-Benz (Einsatz bei BMW und Mercedes-Benz: Humanoide Roboter kommen 2025 | Computerwoche), Figure 02 by Figure, used at BMW (Humanoide Roboter für das BMW Group Werk Spartanburg), Atlas by Boston Dynamics (Atlas | Boston Dynamics), and Optimus by Tesla (Optimus (robot) - Wikipedia).

Automakers recognize the necessity of gradually incorporating humanoid robots into their operations, though they acknowledge the current limitations of their large-scale application. While properly "trained" humanoids can perform tasks with fewer errors than humans, their capabilities are most effective in areas with low task variability. This can be seen at the mentioned car manufacturers, where humanoids are primarily used for simple, repetitive tasks such as handling metal sheets or other components. BMW, for instance, frequently showcases its AI assistants on social media, demonstrating them performing such tasks (Pioneering the Future of Production).

In terms of task variability, warehouses present a greater challenge than manufacturing. The high variability of products and materials, sizes, and even damaged packaging creates a complex mix that requires longer evaluation. Another challenge is effective autonomous movement in dynamic and variable environments, a crucial aspect of transporting products between warehouses and production that humanoids have yet to fully master.

Current automation includes robotic arms, autonomous handling technologies such as AGVs and AMRs, and fully automated systems like AutoStore. While these technologies automate many processes, they still rely on human workers for supervision, interventions, or complementary tasks. Even robots designed for direct human interaction—collaborative robots—require highly standardized processes, as the human element introduces unpredictability that robots must effectively manage.

On the other hand, humanoid robotics is advancing rapidly. Manufacturers continuously refine their products, eliminating flaws in short intervals. For instance, some humanoid robots now possess tactile-like functions, enabling them to handle small components—previously a significant challenge. Given the rapid pace of innovation, the use of humanoid robots is expected to expand further. Like electric vehicles, it is anticipated that humanoid robots will receive ongoing software updates to enhance their capabilities. Additionally, companies like Tesla and Figure demonstrate that hardware development is far from over, continuously introducing improvements and new generations of these robots.

How Would Widespread Humanoid Adoption Impact the Automotive Supply Chain?

Humanoids generate significant public interest, primarily because they represent a technology still largely unfamiliar to people. There is concern that humanoids will eventually take jobs from humans or even pose an existential threat. Fortunately, we are far from realizing such fears. Given aging populations in developed countries and labor shortages for manual tasks, automakers continue to struggle with workforce deficits, with no immediate improvement in sight. Before humanoid robots can replace existing employees, they must first fill currently vacant positions. This presents a rather long-term challenge. Employees should view humanoids as assistants they will need to work alongside rather than as potential threats.

The introduction of humanoids into the workforce can also stabilize staffing levels, as humanoid robots do not require sick leave or job transitions. Additionally, even when taking battery duration and charging time into consideration, they can work multiple shifts per day without reductions in quality or speed (and this is to improve further in near future). Compared to human employees, this capability could significantly increase production capacity and allow resources to be allocated to other processes where greater challenges exist. This is a key factor in optimizing operations and continuously reducing production costs and, consequently, the final product price.

How to Effectively Integrate Humanoid Robots into Business Operations?

Implementing humanoid robots is a significant step toward modernization, efficiency, and flexibility. While automation offers numerous advantages, successful deployment requires careful planning, and a strategic approach based on a thorough understanding of business needs and technological possibilities. At Deloitte, we assist companies with key areas of robotics and automation, including:

The integration of humanoid robots into business operations can lead to significant improvements in performance, quality, and efficiency. A well-planned implementation, based on expert analysis and collaboration with automation and robotics specialists, is key to the project's success and long-term benefits for the company.

Conclusion and Future Outlook

Humanoid robots should be seen as machines capable of reliably and accurately performing a wide range of complex, primarily repetitive tasks. However, it is essential to recognize that humanoid robots are not currently a one-size-fits-all solution for all industries and their needs. Their deployment is most effective in environments where they can deliver clear and measurable benefits.

When integrating humanoids into manufacturing or logistics, it is crucial to identify tasks they can efficiently replace, freeing human employees for higher-value activities. Often, existing processes must be adjusted to maximize robot efficiency. Automakers such as BMW, Mercedes-Benz, and Tesla are among the first companies actively exploring humanoid robot applications in manufacturing, with some already implementing them. These examples can serve as inspiration for other firms, as they will provide valuable data and insights useful for future investment decisions.

With advancements in machine learning and artificial intelligence, humanoid robots will likely overcome current limitations. AI enables these machines to learn from experience and generate new approaches, contributing to their continuously improving performance and broader applicability.

Like any technological revolution, the integration of humanoid robots requires a pragmatic approach. While challenging, it also presents an opportunity for modernization and enhanced efficiency. The success of this transformation will depend on how effectively companies embrace this change and leverage the potential of this new technology to their advantage. Our expert teams are ready to guide businesses through this revolution and help them maximize its benefits.