Shanghai Electric Unveils “Suyuan”: A Leap Forward in Humanoid Robotics
During the World Artificial Intelligence Conference on July 26, 2025, Shanghai Electric made headlines with the global debut of its self-developed industrial humanoid robot, "Suyuan." This innovation marks a significant milestone in the collective narrative of humanoid robotics, positioning Shanghai Electric at the forefront of this rapidly evolving domain.
A Closer Look at Suyuan
Standing 167 cm tall and weighing 50 kg, Suyuan combines human-like proportions with advanced engineering tailored for complex industrial environments. Its design features 38 degrees of freedom (DoF), enabling it to perform precise motions and dynamic operations. This flexibility is complemented by a movement speed of 5 km/h, allowing Suyuan to navigate workplaces effectively.
One of the standout features of Suyuan is its capability to handle logistics and assembly line tasks seamlessly. It can manage a total cargo weight of up to 10 kg and lift objects weighing up to 2 kg with a single arm. Such dexterity makes it an invaluable asset in environments where delicate manipulations or rapid movements are crucial.
Cutting-Edge Technology Behind Suyuan
What sets Suyuan apart is its integration of advanced technologies. It employs a combination of LiDAR and binocular vision systems for self-guided mobility, enabling the robot to adapt to varying industrial contexts. The on-device AI processor, boasting 275 TOPS (trillions of operations per second), allows for real-time data analysis. This capability enhances Suyuan’s ability to interpret tasks naturally and handle objects adaptively.
Pilot tests have further demonstrated Suyuan’s potential. The humanoid robot was able to autonomously identify, position, pick, and relocate mixed-size crates. Utilizing advanced computer vision and synchronized joint control, it significantly boosted warehouse productivity, showcasing the tangible benefits of deploying such sophisticated technology in operational settings.
Humanoid Precision and Beyond
A crucial element in high-end manufacturing is precision. At the WAIC 2025, Shanghai Electric showcased another impressive creation, “Lingke,” a dual-arm robot designed for intricate manufacturing challenges. Lingke exemplifies adaptive collaboration and high-precision operations, freeing human workers from repetitive tasks and improving overall efficiency.
Lingke’s capabilities extend beyond mere functionality. It incorporates advanced data-model-deployment closed-loop technology. By harnessing operational data, Lingke is able to create self-optimizing workflows through a continuous process of data cleansing, model training, and real-time feedback. This transformative approach allows robots to transition from being passive executors to active learners in their environments.
A New Era of Automation
The collaboration between Shanghai Electric and Johnson Electric has birthed a joint venture that aims to pioneer the next generation of humanoid robots. This partnership introduced key hardware modules, including rotary joints and dexterous finger joints. The focus remains on delivering precise, smooth, and intelligent motion performance, which is critical for modern industrial applications.
In addition to technical advancements, the joint venture has strengthened its market presence by securing partnerships like the first-unit supply agreement with the National and Local Co-Built Humanoid Robotics Innovation Center as part of the Qinglong Project, along with a cooperative memorandum with Fourier Robotics. These collaborations are poised to expand the application of humanoid robots across various sectors.
Patenting Innovation
Shanghai Electric is not just making technological advancements but also actively protecting its innovations. With 189 patent applications in humanoid robotics, of which 120 have been granted, the company is establishing itself as a leader in AI-driven industrial solutions. Such intellectual property development underscores its commitment to pushing the boundaries of what humanoid robots can achieve.
The Future of Human-Machine Collaboration
Looking forward, Shanghai Electric has ambitious plans to broaden its “human-machine” and “inter-machine” collaborative solutions. By leveraging its extensive research and development capabilities, the company aims to develop multifunctional robots that can integrate seamlessly into diverse industrial ecosystems. This vision for a comprehensive AI ecosystem reflects a dedication to advancing the future of humanoid robotics and automation.
Shanghai Electric’s journey with Suyuan not only highlights its innovative potentials but also sets the stage for the next wave of industrial transformation marked by intelligent machines capable of enhancing productivity, precision, and performance in workplaces across the globe.