China is running the EV playbook on humanoid robots – and it's working (restofworld.org)

In 2025, China dramatically dominated the global humanoid robot market, accounting for nearly 90% of all sales, with its top companies, Unitree and Agibot, leading the charge. This early advantage mirrors China's strategy in the electric vehicle sector, driven by supportive policies, public investment, and a well-established supply chain. Industry experts forecast that the humanoid robot market, currently focused on research, retail, and industrial applications, may see mass adoption by the late 2030s, highlighting the significance of China's proactive approach to technology development. Chinese manufacturers have increased the use of local components, enhancing cost efficiency and fostering domestic innovation. While Tesla and other Western companies lag significantly behind in sales, experts suggest they can compete by prioritizing advancements in AI and software over mere production volume. As the humanoid robotics industry evolves, the race remains tight, particularly with Tesla's ongoing development of its Optimus robot for consumer use, which Musk claims may outperform Chinese models despite their current lead. The unfolding dynamics will shape the future landscape of robotics, emphasizing both hardware development and the critical role of AI capabilities.