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Chinese robotics companies are now introducing consumer-grade robot dogs priced below CNY10,000 (approximately USD1,423). However, industry experts highlight that the real challenge lies in successfully integrating these products into households and achieving stable mass production for long-term viability.
Vita Dynamics recently launched its first quadruped robot, the Big Head Bobo, priced at CNY9,988 (around USD1,421). On launch day, the company received more than CNY10 million (roughly USD1.4 million) in pre-orders. Meanwhile, Shenzhen-based Dobot began pre-selling its Rover X1 at CNY7,499 on the same day.
The Big Head Bobo can accompany users during outdoor walks, take autonomous photos, carry lightweight loads, and interact via voice communication. In contrast, the Rover X1 is designed to serve both consumers and business-to-business clients.
Vita Dynamics plans to start mass production of the Big Head Bobo in Dongguan next month, with user testing expected to start at the end of January. The company anticipates beginning full-scale deliveries by March, according to a co-founder. The company estimates that reaching a sales volume of around 50,000 units will enable it to recover product development, engineering, and labor costs.
Despite these advances, achieving stable mass production and consistent delivery remains a complex challenge. It not only tests technical development but also necessitates comprehensive assessments of manufacturing costs, supply chains, and market adoption.
A robotics product manager commented that previous efforts to bring consumer quadruped robots to market have faced significant hurdles. Practical application issues and supply chain disruptions have hampered efforts to ensure dependable and scalable production.
Currently, consumer-grade robots are still in infancy, with the costs of R&D, molds, and supply chains not yet fully amortized. Delays in delivery timelines could also dampen consumer interest, according to industry insiders.
One key to success, they say, is for startups to develop controlled, scalable mass production methods without compromising user experience, a crucial factor in moving these products from prototypes to household staples.
Vita Dynamics plans to expand the production capacity of the Big Head Bobo gradually through ongoing pre-sales, testing, and batch deliveries to minimize risks related to quality and cost spikes caused by rapid increases in output.
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