Robots on the Move and Coffee Without a Barista: China Showcases the Future of Autonomous Technology
Chinese companies showcased the expanding capabilities of autonomous technology at the World Intelligent Connected Vehicles Conference in Beijing, presenting innovations ranging from vehicles that transport and recharge robots to driverless taxis and robotic coffee carts.
The three-day event concluded on Friday, bringing together automakers, technology companies and regulators to explore ways to make transportation safer and more intelligent. Exhibits ranged from advanced driver-assistance systems to fully autonomous vehicles.
One highlight was a concept vehicle developed by Beijing-based startup Fittbus, founded in 2023 to build customizable electric commercial vehicles. Designed to transport humanoid robots, robot dogs and drones to outdoor work sites, the vehicle could support applications including equipment inspections, maintenance and emergency response.
Chen Yizhou, the company's senior product manager, said the vehicle reduces the time crews spend unpacking robots and preparing them for operation. Its onboard charging systems allow the machines to recharge while in transit, so they are ready to work upon arrival.
The vehicle includes dedicated storage and charging areas, wireless charging panels for robot dogs, a repair bench and a computing center. The computing system helps coordinate robots working outside and allows engineers to monitor their status. Although the vehicle has a single-seat cockpit for an engineer, it can also drive autonomously. Fully driverless operation would depend on regulatory approval.
While Fittbus's vehicle remains a concept, autonomous passenger transport is already being tested in Beijing. In Yizhuang, ride-hailing company Didi offered conference participants a trial ride lasting about 20 minutes in a robotaxi. The car navigated its route smoothly, operating alongside other vehicles in the district's autonomous driving demonstration zone.
Another attraction was the Robo X5, a self-driving drinks cart developed by Beijing-based robotics company Robo Space. Using two robotic arms, the cart can prepare beverages on demand, including iced Americanos. The company is targeting exhibitions and tourist attractions for the technology.
Vicky, the company's senior marketing manager, said the cart can navigate and operate without staff around the clock. Its robotic arms can prepare coffee, milk tea, cocktails and fruit tea, with ice cream and hot dogs planned for future additions.
According to CCTV+, the conference demonstrated how autonomous technology is expanding beyond self-driving cars into robotics, service industries and everyday life.
