XPeng founder and CEO He Xiaopeng announced on June 10 that he would personally take the helm of the companys robotics division effective immediately, in addition to his existing role running the group. The move comes as XPeng Robotics approaches mass production and commercialization, marking a critical step in the groups strategic transformation from a smart EV company to a physical AI company.
XPeng is emerging as a frontrunner in humanoid robotics among automakers, pushing toward mass production by year-end. The companys IRON humanoid robot which debuted in November 2025 is at the centre of this push. Construction of its mass-production facility began in Q1 2025, with monthly production capacity expected to exceed 1,000 units by year-end, with initial deployments prioritised in XPeng stores and campuses.
What makes Hes direct involvement significant is the strategic logic: XPeng Group will leverage its automotive supply chain and manufacturing capabilities to significantly increase investment in robotics and accelerate customer deliveries. The same industrial infrastructure that builds cars will build humanoid robots a manufacturing advantage that pure-play robotics startups cannot replicate.
Globally, more than 20 major automakers have entered the humanoid robotics space. Teslas Optimus is advancing rapidly, and Chinese rivals including BYD and Xiaomi are close behind. By putting himself personally in charge, He is placing a very public bet on IRONs commercial potential.
