Leapmotor founder, chairman and CEO Zhu Jiangming confirmed on September 16 that the company has made a small-scale investment in embodied intelligence and built fully self-developed robots, according to Chinese outlet Gasgoo. Speaking at Leapmotor's 2026 annual technology conference, Zhu said the company is exploring a scenario where robots can be deployed at scale and create commercial value.
"Some colleagues suggested we should let our robot walk around at today's conference," Zhu said. "I said no - a robot that can walk is not impressive. Only a robot that can make money is worth showing off." Leapmotor's philosophy, he added, is that technology reserves can be ahead of time, but product rollout must be reliable.
Technology spillover from EV development
Leapmotor's move into robotics follows the same logic as other auto industry players entering the field: spillover from self-developed technology. The company believes its 11 years of full-stack in-house development - covering motors, controllers, batteries, perception algorithms and computing platforms - provides the core underlying capabilities for embodied intelligent robots. Leapmotor claims it is one of the best-positioned automakers in the industry to build robots.
For its smart vehicles, Leapmotor has built a systematic capability spanning vehicle architecture, electronic and electrical architecture, battery systems, electric drive systems, smart cockpits and driver assistance. Based on this foundation, the company currently sells 10 models, with monthly sales surpassing 100,000 units and cumulative sales reaching 1.8 million vehicles.
Technology supply becomes second growth engine
Leapmotor's technology is not only used in its own products but also exported to partners. The company provides vehicle-level technology to FAW and Stellantis, among others. Its electronic systems have five partners, electric drive systems eight, and battery systems ten. Technology supply has become Leapmotor's second growth curve, according to Gasgoo.
Leapmotor's robot development remains at an early stage, with no specific product or launch timeline announced. The company's focus on commercial viability distinguishes it from some peers that showcase robots as publicity stunts, Zhu suggested.
