KATHMANDU: Renault is preparing to introduce humanoid robots in its production facilities, aiming to improve efficiency and reduce manufacturing costs.
The company plans to deploy around 350 robots by 2027 in partnership with Wandercraft. The robot, named Calvin-40, has been developed for handling repetitive and physically demanding tasks in factory environments, writes Carscoops.
Unlike fully autonomous humanoid robots under development by other automakers, Renault is focusing on a simpler and cost-effective approach. The Calvin-40 is not designed for independent decision-making or human-like interaction, but for specific tasks such as lifting tires and carrying heavy components within production lines.
The robot features a functional design with large circular hands instead of complex fingers, meaning human workers will continue to handle precision tasks on assembly lines. According to the company, the primary goal is to reduce the physical workload of employees by automating repetitive operations.
Renault’s Head of Production and Quality, Thierry Charvet, stated that the focus is on efficient and low-cost automation rather than human-like robots.
The automaker highlighted that such robots can operate effectively in limited spaces while handling heavy loads, helping automate workstations that were previously difficult to mechanize.
With ongoing production improvements, Renault has already reduced manufacturing time for models like the Renault 5 and Twingo EV to 10 hours or less. Through the adoption of humanoid robots and other measures, the company aims to cut overall production time per vehicle by up to 30 percent.
