BMW is set to deploy Figure's humanoid robot at its South Carolina plant

BMW's Spartanburg plant, the company's only US facility, will welcome Figure's first humanoid robot under a commercial agreement. The plant, spanning 8 million square feet, leads BMW's global factories in yield.

The number of Figure 01 models BMW will introduce initially remains undisclosed. The tasks assigned to the robot upon deployment are also unspecified, but Figure confirms starting with five tasks, gradually expanding.

While termed "general purpose," these systems debut as single- or multi-purpose units, evolving over time, akin to app stores. Figure's CEO likens the process to Boston Dynamics' Spot robot and its SDK.

Initial applications may include box moving, pick and place, and pallet unloading/loading, addressing repetitive tasks challenging for human workers to retain, especially in factories.

Figure aims to deliver its first commercial robot within a year, an ambitious timeline for the company. Initial applications, likely involving sheet metal, are influenced by early partners like BMW, with additional clients undisclosed for now.

Figure prioritizes creating a dexterous, human-like hand for manipulation, essential for tasks requiring high dexterity, in contrast to other humanoid designers. Leg functionality is emphasized for maneuvering during tasks over tasks like climbing stairs or uneven terrain.

Training methods for Figure 01 incorporate reinforcement learning, simulation, and teleoperation to navigate potential challenges. Real-world testing will refine the robot's approach, aligning with BMW's output expectations to determine long-term integration.

Figure adopts a robotics-as-a-service (RaaS) model, leasing systems to BMW, ensuring flexibility and scalability for future deployments.