In a groundbreaking demonstration of robotic endurance, Figure’s humanoid robot has completed a marathon 20-hour shift on BMW’s X3 production line. This milestone represents a significant leap forward in manufacturing automation, as most human workers would be ready to collapse after just half that time (and would probably demand overtime pay, unlike their mechanical counterparts).
According to Figure CEO Brett Adcock, the company has been successfully running 10-hour shifts for several weeks, but this extended 20-hour back-to-back run marks a world first for humanoid robots in automotive manufacturing. The image shows the sleek Figure robot integrated seamlessly into BMW’s production environment, performing tasks that would typically require human dexterity but without the pesky needs for breaks, sleep, or complaints about working conditions. While humans need unions, these robots just need occasional maintenance and a power outlet.