CATL bets big on robotics as it looks beyond batteries

It’s no secret that automakers love robots. From investing in robotics startups to building their own, car manufacturers have been exploring robots in various forms. That enthusiasm seems contagious, for Contemporary Amperex Technology (CATL), a major player in the electric vehicle battery supply chain, is now diving into humanoid robotics.

CATL’s Future Energy Research Institute, a wholly owned subsidiary, is collaborating with Shanghai Jiao Tong University to develop multiple types of robots for deployment in industrial settings. Established in January 2022, the institute focuses on advancing energy technologies and is poised to become a global hub for energy innovation.

In 2023, the institute launched five joint robotics projects with Shanghai Jiao Tong University. These include legged robots, biped robots, heavy-duty quadruped robots, humanoid robots, and vision-guided servo robots. The goal is to meet CATL’s growth needs while aligning with international standards in advanced technology.

Meanwhile, CATL is ramping up in-house robotics development. Sources told 36Kr that the company’s 21C Lab has assigned a 20-person team to focus on robotic arm development as part of its frontier research.

CATL did not respond to 36Kr’s request for comment.

CATL has cemented its position as a global leader in EV battery manufacturing. Data from South Korea’s SNE Research shows that the company retained its top position in 2024, producing 137.7 gigawatt-hours of installed battery capacity—a 29.5% year-on-year increase.

This success stems largely from CATL’s ability to scale production while minimizing costs. Technologies such as end-to-end virtual simulation and imaging algorithms are already helping CATL enhance production efficiency and reduce defects. On average, CATL factories produce one battery cell every second, with production line output nearly three times that of competitors in Japan and South Korea.

CATL isn’t stopping there. Its chief scientist, Wu Kai, has openly stated the company’s ambition to achieve fully automated production. Robotics is a key part of this plan, with the Future Energy Research Institute hiring experts in joint motor drives, robot motion control, and harness and sensor engineering to push the agenda forward.

CATL’s initial focus on robot design and development has already resulted in ten robotics-related patents, spanning areas such as mobile robots, material handling robots, and robotic components. However, progress has been slower than expected, according to a source familiar with the company’s operations. To address these challenges, CATL has partnered with humanoid robotics firms, including Zhiyuan Robotics, to test humanoid robots in its battery factories.

The company is also exploring strategic investments to fast-track its robotics ambitions. One notable move was a recent investment in Spirit AI by Bai Rui Capital, a fund co-founded by CATL vice chairman Li Ping.

With its robotics projects gaining momentum and fresh investments underway, CATL is carving out a spot in the robotics world. It’s a big leap for the battery giant, signaling a shift from focusing solely on powering EVs to embracing a future in smart automation.

KrASIA Connection features translated and adapted content that was originally published by 36Kr. This article was written by Tian Zhe for 36Kr.