Renault has announced plans to introduce humanoid robots at its plants. The model in question is the Calvin-40, developed in collaboration with the French startup Wandercraft. By 2027, the company intends to use 350 of these devices.
The robot was created in 40 days and has a simplified design without a head. Unlike more complex solutions from competitors, it is not designed for autonomous thinking. The main task is to perform repetitive operations, including carrying heavy parts.
Calvin-40 is used to move tires and body panels. The robot is equipped with simplified grippers instead of fingers, so it does not completely replace employees. Its implementation is aimed at reducing the physical load on personnel.
The head of Renault's production division, Thierry Charvet, stated that he is not very interested in humanoid robots, but the company values efficient and inexpensive automatic devices.
Renault notes that the use of such solutions has already reduced the production time of electric vehicles to 10 hours or less. In the future, the company expects to reduce labor costs for car production by 30%.