UBTech Accelerates China’s Humanoid Push with Over $110M in Industrial Robot Orders
Shenzhen-based UBTech Robotics says demand is rising fast for its industrial humanoid, the Walker S2. The company reports more than $113 million USD in orders this year alone, signaling that human-shaped robots are beginning to move from showcase stages to actual factory deployments across China.
UBTech announced a new contract worth roughly $22 million USD with a firm in Zigong, Sichuan—its second-largest deal this year, following a $34 million USD order in September. Other recent agreements include a $17 million USD contract supporting a data center buildout in Guangxi, a $14 million USD purchase from Miee Auto, and a major $35 million USD humanoid solutions deal with an unnamed Chinese enterprise.
The Walker S2, launched in July, is pitched as the first industrial humanoid capable of self-swapping batteries, enabling longer runtime on manufacturing lines. UBTech says mass production and broader deployment will begin in mid-November, with plans to deliver over 500 units this year and scale to 1,000+ units annually.
Despite rapid revenue growth—first-half 2025 sales reached roughly $86 million USD, up 27% year over year—UBTech continues to operate at a loss, though net losses have narrowed. Investor confidence remains high: UBTech’s Hong Kong–listed shares are up more than 150% this year, with major brokerages maintaining buy ratings.
The company expects humanoids to gain traction first in industrial roles, followed by more complex operational tasks within 2–3 years, limited service roles within 3–5 years, and eventually in-home use in 8–10 years.
Competition is quickly intensifying. EV maker Xpeng recently unveiled its own humanoid platform, sparking renewed scrutiny of capability claims. Meanwhile, suppliers across China—including Sanhua Intelligent Controls, Ningbo Tuopu, and Shuanghuan Driveline—are expanding capacity to supply components to developers such as UBTech, Tesla (Optimus), Agibot, and others.
