AI2 Robotics raises Series B funding to advance AlphaBot, embodied AI
AI2 Robotics has developed VLA models for its AlphaBot 2 robot. Source: AI2 Robotics
AI2 Robotics this week reportedly raised CN¥1.2 billion ($144.7 million U.S.) to continue developing embodied AI. The company said it plans to use the funding to advance its model toward general-purpose humanoid robots.
Dr. Yangdong Eric Guo founded Shenzhen, China-based AI2 Robotics in 2023. The startup (not to be confused with the Allen Institute for AI or Ai2) said its AlphaBot wheeled humanoid robots integrate proprietary foundation models with machine learning and robust hardware.
“AI² Robotics is committed to accelerating the global adoption of general-purpose robots, making them as accessible as smart cars and smartphones, becoming a universal device for everyone,” said the company.
AI² Robotics develops VLA model as ‘China’s Tesla’
AI2 Robotics has developed the Global and Omni-body vision-language-action (GOVLA) model for “full-space understanding, whole-body coordination, and complex task reasoning.” It said its “data closed-loop + scenario compounding” approach provides a competitive advantage.
“Like Tesla, AI² Robotics positions itself as a rare developer, manufacturer, and service provider of productivity-oriented, general-purpose intelligent robots — distinct from performance or entertainment-focused models,” noted Pandaily.
The company claimed that its robots are already used in retail, public service, biotechnology, and automotive and semiconductor manufacturing applications. AI2 Robotics plans to expand to community services, healthcare and elder care, and household services.
Industrial investors to help with production, use cases
“Investors in the Series B fundraiser included internet giant Baidu, state-owned high-speed train manufacturer CRRC, fintech service provider Yusys Technologies, tire maker Sentury Tire, and leading brokerage Guotai Haitong Securities,” wrote Yicai Global.
The round brings AI2 Robotics’ valuation to RMB10 billion ($1.4 billion). Baidu will assist in enhancing the startup’s AI capabilities, while CRRC will provide testing and manufacturing expertise, Yicai Global added.
“Industry partners such as Yusys Technologies and SENTURY are focusing on commercial deployment scenarios,” said Pandaily.
AI2 Robotics also plans to update its AlphaBot series and expand production from 1,000 units per year in 2025 to 10,000 units this year. Display maker HKC has placed an order for 1,000 robots, and AI2 CEO Eric Guo told Reuters that he hopes to go public in one to two years.
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