China just made a bold move in robotics. XPENG unveiled IRON, their first full-scale humanoid robot – and they did it spectacularly: they cut the robot open live onstage to prove there wasn’t a human inside.
The result? One of the most human-like robot demonstrations we’ve seen to date.
Why IRON stands out
While most humanoid robots still feel mechanical, IRON shows something different: fluid, natural movements that look almost biological.
The specs are impressive:
- 82 degrees of freedom across the body
- 22 degrees of freedom per hand
- 2,250 TOPS computing power (for comparison: Intel’s best consumer chip hits ~120 TOPS)
- World’s first humanoid robot with an all-solid-state battery
A Robot designed like a body
XPENG deliberately chose a unique approach. Instead of mimicking Boston Dynamics’ mechanical design or Tesla’s minimalism, they designed IRON as an actual body:
- Human-like spine and endoskeleton
- Bionic muscle systems
- Full synthetic skin coverage
- Customizable proportions
The goal is clear: blur the line between human and machine.
Physical AI: A new way of thinking
The most striking aspect of IRON is the technology behind it. While most robots work on the principle see → translate to language → decide → move, IRON skips steps.
Their “physical AI” architecture:
- Interprets visual cues directly
- Reacts physically without intermediate steps
- Eliminates unnecessary computation layers
This is closer to how biological systems work – instinctive and direct.
Smart deployment strategy
XPENG isn’t throwing IRON into homes right away. Not because the technology isn’t ready, but because humans are too unpredictable.
The first phase (2026) targets:
- Retail stores
- Offices
- Showrooms
- Controlled commercial spaces
This approach follows the same path as Tesla, Figure AI, and 1X: start where the environment is predictable.
The solid-state battery is also strategic: safer than lithium-ion, longer lifespan, and no overheating risk – ideal for long work hours in commercial settings.
The competition
- Tesla Optimus: Strong in locomotion, but less fluid than IRON
- Figure 01: Best in cognitive reasoning and task execution
- 1X (EVE & NEO): Most “human-safe” robots, but intentionally slow and cautious
- Unitree H1: Fastest and most athletic robot, but clearly machine-like
We’ve crossed the uncanny valley
The fact that people questioned whether IRON was real says it all. XPENG has reached a milestone the industry has been working toward for years: natural, believable movements.
By 2026, all major players will start mass production. The question is no longer if humanoid robots are coming, but how many and how fast.
XPENG IRON shows that the future of robotics is arriving faster than expected – and looking more human than ever.
