A market analysis and overview of humanoid robots with a payload of 10 kg or more, for purchase and rental options

The next wave of automation reaches Europe

European industry is at a critical turning point. Established for decades as a global leader in manufacturing, automotive, and logistics, it now faces a convergence of fundamental challenges. Demographic change is leading to an aging population and an increasingly noticeable shortage of skilled workers, particularly for physically demanding, repetitive, or dangerous jobs. At the same time, global competitive pressure, driven by highly innovative economies in North America and Asia, is intensifying the need for increased efficiency and technological sovereignty. These factors are creating an unavoidable need for new, more flexible, and intelligent automation solutions that go beyond the capabilities of traditional robotics.

The technological answer to these challenges is becoming increasingly clear: humanoid robots. Long relegated to the realm of science fiction, they are now evolving into a tangible and strategically relevant technology class. Unlike conventional industrial robots, which are designed for highly structured tasks in shielded safety cages, humanoid robots are being developed for use in human-centered work environments. Their human-like form with arms, legs, and hands enables them to utilize tools and infrastructure designed for humans. Driven by advances in artificial intelligence (AI), sensing, and actuator technology, they promise seamless interaction and collaboration with human workers to take productivity, safety, and flexibility to new levels.

This article serves as a comprehensive, strategic guide for decision-makers in European companies. It aims to provide a well-founded assessment of the potential, risks, and concrete options for the introduction of humanoid robots. The focus is deliberately on models with an industry-relevant payload of 10 kg and more, as these have the ability to perform a wide range of physical tasks in logistics, manufacturing, and other sectors. It provides a detailed analysis of market drivers, the leading global and European robot platforms, as well as the available procurement models and their cost structures.

The structure of the article systematically guides the reader from a strategic market analysis through detailed profiles of the most relevant robots to an in-depth comparison of performance, service, and the critical aspects of safety and certification. Finally, concrete strategic recommendations for successful implementation in European companies are formulated. This article aims to provide the necessary knowledge base to not only understand the next wave of automation, but also to actively and profitably shape it.

The European Humanoid Robotics Market: A Strategic Overview

The European market for humanoid robotics is in a crucial phase of transition from research to real-world application. Driven by compelling economic and societal imperatives, the industry is beginning to recognize the transformative potential of this technology. This chapter highlights the key drivers of this development, analyzes Europe's position in global competition, and explains the technological leap that distinguishes humanoid robots from previous automation solutions.

Drivers of adoption: Why now?

The increasing urgency with which European companies are turning to humanoid robotics is not a coincidence, but the result of several mutually reinforcing factors.

Demographic change and labor shortages

Europe is experiencing a profound demographic shift. An aging population and declining birth rates are leading to a structural labor shortage that will only worsen in the coming years. Filling vacancies is becoming increasingly difficult, particularly in sectors such as logistics, warehousing, and manufacturing, which rely on manual labor. According to a study by Descartes Research, 76% of logistics and supply chain companies are suffering from staff shortages. Humanoid robots are seen as a strategic solution to close this gap. They can take over physically demanding, monotonous, and repetitive tasks for which increasingly fewer human workers can be found, thus ensuring business continuity.

The paradigm of Industry 5.0

While Industry 4.0 aimed at the complete automation and networking of machines, the concept of Industry 5.0 focuses on collaboration between humans and machines. It's no longer about displacing humans from the factory, but rather enhancing their capabilities with intelligent technological partners. Humanoid robots are the physical embodiment of this vision. They are designed to work safely alongside humans, learn from them, and support them in their tasks. Manufacturers such as the Italian company Oversonic are explicitly developing their RoBee robot with the vision of Industry 5.0 in mind, emphasizing the creation of a production system that places the value, safety, and protection of humans at its core.

Safety and ergonomics in the workplace

Another key driver is improving workplace safety and ergonomics. Many industrial activities are repetitive, physically demanding, or take place in hazardous environments. These so-called "dull, dirty, and dangerous jobs" lead to an increased risk of workplace accidents, occupational diseases, and long-term health problems. Humanoid robots can take over precisely these tasks, from handling heavy loads to working in environments with chemical or thermal risks. This not only reduces the risk of injury and the associated costs for companies, but also frees up human employees for higher-value, more creative, and strategic activities, which can lead to increased job satisfaction and productivity.

Europe's position in global competition

The development of humanoid robots is a global race currently dominated by companies from the US and increasingly also from China. Players such as Boston Dynamics, Figure AI, and Agility Robotics from the US, as well as Unitree from China, are setting technological and commercial standards. Reports such as Peter Diamandis's paint a picture in which Europe appears to be underrepresented among the top 16 leading humanoid robotics companies. This perception poses a serious challenge to the continent's technological sovereignty.

But this picture is incomplete. Europe has a strong foundation in industrial automation and an excellent research and development ecosystem. Initiatives such as the EU-funded euROBIN Network of Excellence demonstrate a clear commitment to consolidating Europe's leading role in AI-based robotics. euROBIN, coordinated by the German Aerospace Center (DLR), connects 31 renowned research institutions and companies from 14 countries to advance the joint development of cutting-edge technologies. Industry associations such as VDMA Robotics + Automation are also calling for a "Robotics Action Plan for Europe" to prevent Europe from falling behind in global competition.

A crucial factor shaping market dynamics in Europe and massively increasing the relevance of certain global players is the role of the European automotive industry. The strategic partnerships that leading American startups have entered into with German premium automakers have far-reaching implications. BMW's decision to test Figure AI's Figure 02 in its production processes and the commercial agreement between Mercedes-Benz and Apptronik for the use of the Apollo robot are more than just pilot projects. These automakers are known worldwide for their extremely high standards of quality, reliability, and automation; they were the pioneers of Industry 4.0. When these companies validate a technology for use in their demanding, highly complex manufacturing environments, they send a strong signal to the entire market. It is a seal of approval that confirms the industrial maturity and practical suitability of these robot platforms. For potential buyers in other industries, from logistics to general manufacturing, this represents a significant reduction in risk in their own investment decisions. At the same time, competing robot manufacturers, especially European players like Neura Robotics, are under enormous pressure to also establish partnerships with such high-profile industry icons in order to demonstrate their competitiveness and the performance of their own technology. The European automotive industry thus acts as a kind of "kingmaker," playing a key role in determining which humanoid robot platforms will prevail in the European market.

The technological leap: From cobots to cognitive humanoids

To fully grasp the potential of humanoid robots, it's important to distinguish them from previous automation technologies. Traditional industrial robots, such as those found in the extensive portfolios of established vendors like KUKA and ABB, are designed for precision and speed in highly repetitive tasks in a fully controlled environment. They typically operate in safety cages, separated from humans.

Collaborative robots, so-called cobots, represent a further development. They are designed to work in close proximity to humans and have safety systems that stop upon contact. Their programming is often simpler, but their capabilities are usually limited to simple, pre-programmed movement sequences.

Humanoid robots represent a fundamental paradigm shift. Their key added value lies not only in their human-like form, but also in their cognitive ability. Powered by advanced AI models, they are no longer solely dependent on executing rigid, preprogrammed scripts. Instead, they can perceive and understand their environment, and adapt to dynamic, unstructured conditions. They learn through observation (imitation learning) or through trial and error (reinforcement learning), allowing them to master new tasks without extensive reprogramming. This ability to operate in the real world designed for humans, solve complex problems, and respond flexibly to changes makes them a fundamentally new class of automation tools with the potential to redefine the boundaries of what can be automated.

Leading global platforms and their relevance for Europe

While European companies are on the rise, the market for humanoid robots is currently led by a number of highly innovative global players, primarily from North America and increasingly from Asia. Their robots are either already available in Europe or their market entry is foreseeable through strategic partnerships with European industry heavyweights. This chapter introduces the most important of these global platforms and analyzes their technical capabilities, strategic orientation, and specific relevance to the European market. Each profile follows a standardized structure to ensure direct comparability.

Apptronics Apollo (USA)

Manufacturer profile

Founded in 2016 in Austin, Texas, Apptronik is a company with deep roots in academic and government robotics research. The core team was instrumental in developing the NASA Valkyrie robot for the DARPA Robotics Challenge, demonstrating exceptional technical expertise and experience in building complex humanoid systems.

Technical performance data

At 1.73 m (5'8") tall and weighing 72.6 kg (160 lbs), the Apollo is human-sized. Its payload of 25 kg (55 lbs) is one of the highest in its class, making it suitable for a wide range of industrial handling tasks. A crucial feature for industrial use is its power supply: Apollo is powered by replaceable batteries, each providing a runtime of 4 hours. Thanks to "hot swapping" – the rapid replacement of batteries during operation – the robot can theoretically be used around the clock without having to wait for long charging times.

Technology & Security

Apollo's design places a strong emphasis on safe human-robot collaboration. Unlike traditional industrial robots that stop upon contact, Apollo utilizes an advanced force-torque control architecture. This allows the robot to sensitively control its movements and move safely near humans, similar to cobots. The system features defined safety zones: an outer "perimeter zone" triggers behavioral adjustment, while the inner "impact zone" leads to an immediate stop upon detection of an object. Control is via intuitive point-and-click software, simplifying integration into existing warehouse and manufacturing processes. Furthermore, the design is modular, meaning the robot's torso can also be mounted on other mobility platforms, such as wheeled or stationary.

European presence

Apptronik has established a strong and strategically important presence in Europe through a commercial pilot agreement with Mercedes-Benz. As part of this partnership, the Apollo robot will be deployed at Mercedes-Benz production facilities to automate demanding, manual, and physically demanding tasks. Concrete tests are already underway in intralogistics applications at the plants in Berlin and Hungary. This collaboration not only serves as validation of the technology under the highest industrial standards but also paves the way for broader adoption in the European automotive and supplier industries.

Procurement models and pricing

Apptronik pursues a flexible go-to-market strategy, offering both direct purchase (CapEx) and a Robot as a Service (RaaS) (OpEx) model. This allows companies to choose the right model based on their financial strategy and risk tolerance. The targeted purchase price for mass production is under $50,000, making Apollo one of the most aggressively priced and potentially attractive models from a Western manufacturer.

Figure AI Figure 02 (USA)

Manufacturer profile

Figure AI, founded only in 2022, has established itself as one of the leading players in the field of humanoid robotics in record time. The Sunnyvale, California-based company has a clear mission to solve the global labor shortage in logistics and manufacturing with general-purpose humanoid robots. The extremely fast development cycles, from the first prototype Figure 01 to the more powerful Figure 02, demonstrate its high agility and strong financial backing.

Technical performance data

At 1.68 m (5'6") tall and weighing 60 kg (132 lbs), the Figure 02 is slightly more compact and lighter than the Apollo. It offers a payload of 20 kg (44 lbs) and an operating time of up to 5 hours on a single battery charge. Its movement speed is 1.2 m/s (4.9 ft/s). These specifications position it as a versatile tool for a wide range of handling and assembly tasks.

Technology & AI

The heart of the Figure 02 is its AI system called "Helix." This is an advanced Vision-Language-Action (VLA) model trained to see, understand, and interact with the world, much like a human. A key technological advantage is that the entire AI system runs locally on the robot ("on the edge"), typically on powerful NVIDIA Jetson Orin modules. This reduces latency, increases reliability under fluctuating network connections, and makes the robot less dependent on a permanent cloud connection – a critical factor for use in industrial environments.

European presence

Similar to Apptronik, Figure AI has prepared its entry into the European market through a high-profile partnership with a German automaker. The strategic alliance with BMW envisions the testing and phased introduction of the Figure 02 in automotive production, starting at its US plant in Spartanburg. The agreement includes the potential for the delivery of up to 100,000 robots, underscoring the long-term and strategic nature of this collaboration. Such large-scale deployment in the US would make expansion into BMW's European plants a logical next step.

Pricing

Although no official pricing has been released, the informal price for the Figure 02 is estimated in industry circles to be around $50,000 once mass production begins. This puts it in a similar price range to the Apollo and signals a clear attack on the mass market.

Agility Robotics Digit (USA)

Manufacturer profile

Agility Robotics, founded in 2015, can be considered one of the pioneers of modern commercial humanoid robotics. Building on the success of its purely locomotion-focused robot Cassie, the company has developed Digit, one of the first humanoid robots already in use in real commercial logistics applications.

Technical performance data

Digit is 1.75 m tall, weighs 65 kg, and is designed for a payload of 16 kg. This specification is clearly tailored to its primary use case in logistics: lifting and moving standard storage containers (totes).

Technology & Sensors

Digit's most striking feature is its unique, bird-like leg design. This kinematics enables highly dynamic and energy-efficient locomotion. To perceive its surroundings, the robot is equipped with a 360-degree lidar and four Intel RealSense depth cameras, enabling comprehensive spatial awareness. All fleet management, task assignment, and workflow monitoring are handled via the cloud-based Agility Arc platform.

European presence

Digit is already available to European customers and is distributed through specialized distributors such as EuropaSatellite. The company has already implemented solutions with global logistics providers such as GXO, demonstrating its practicality in real-world warehouse environments.

Procurement models and pricing

Agility Robotics explicitly offers customers two options: direct purchase and a comprehensive Robot as a Service (RaaS) model. The RaaS package is an all-inclusive subscription that includes the robot hardware, software platform, accessories, and all service. This significantly lowers the barrier to entry and offers maximum flexibility. This flexibility is also necessary because the purchase price for a Digit, at around $250,000, is significantly higher than that of the competition. This makes it one of the most expensive models on the market and positions the RaaS offering as a strategically important and more attractive option for many companies.

Sanctuary AI Phoenix (Canada)

Manufacturer profile

Sanctuary AI, a Canadian company based in Vancouver, has an ambitious mission to address the global labor shortage with general-purpose humanoid robots that exhibit human-like intelligence and dexterity.

Technical performance data

The sixth-generation Phoenix robot is 1.70 m tall, weighs 70 kg, and can handle a payload of up to 25 kg (55 lbs).

Technology & AI

The technological centerpiece is the AI control system "Carbon™," which aims to simulate subsystems of the human brain such as memory, sensory perception, and logical reasoning. A particular focus of Sanctuary AI is the development of highly sensitive, human-like hands with haptic feedback. This should enable the Phoenix robot to perform complex manipulation tasks that require a high degree of dexterity. The control architecture is flexible and allows operation in remote mode (telepresence), in assisted mode, or fully autonomously under the supervision of the Carbon™ system.

European presence

At this time, no specific pilot projects or distribution partnerships for Sanctuary AI are known in Europe. Nevertheless, due to its advanced technology, particularly in the area of hand manipulation, and its clear vision, the company is considered one of the leading global players. European companies should strategically monitor Sanctuary AI for future developments.

Unitree H1 (China)

Manufacturer profile

Unitree Robotics, originally known for its agile and cost-effective four-legged robots, is now entering the humanoid robot market with great force and an aggressive pricing strategy. The company is positioning itself as a technologically advanced yet more affordable competitor to Western providers.

Technical performance data

At 1.80 m, the Unitree H1 is one of the largest humanoid robots, yet weighs a remarkably light 47 kg. Despite its low weight, it boasts an impressive payload of 30 kg. This excellent payload-to-weight ratio is an outstanding technical feature. Furthermore, with a walking speed of up to 3.3 m/s (approximately 11.9 km/h), the H1 holds the world record for the fastest humanoid robot.

Technology & Sensors

The H1 is equipped with a 3D LiDAR and an Intel RealSense D435i depth camera for environment perception. A key advantage for research and development is its full compatibility with the Robot Operating System (ROS). This makes it much easier for developers to integrate new sensors and quickly create their own applications.

European presence

Unlike many other non-European providers, who still rely on pilot projects, the Unitree H1 is already available directly in Europe through established distributors. Companies such as Génération Robots in France and MYBOTSHOP.DE in Germany offer the robot for sale, enabling uncomplicated and quick procurement for European customers.

Pricing

The pricing for the H1 is a clear indication of the aggressive market strategy. While some sources cite a range of $90,000 to $150,000, European dealers list it for around €132,000. While this still represents a significant investment, it positions the H1 below Agility Robotics' high-end model in terms of price, putting pressure on all Western competitors.

Other relevant global players (brief overview)

Boston Dynamics (USA)

Although the humanoid robot Atlas remains purely a research and development project and not commercially available, its importance to the industry cannot be overstated. Atlas regularly sets new benchmarks for dynamics, agility, and mobility, thus driving technological development forward. The opening of a European office in Germany (near Frankfurt) for sales and service of the commercially available Spot and Stretch robots underscores the strategic importance of the European market for Boston Dynamics. This local presence creates an ideal infrastructure for a potential future launch of a commercial version of Atlas in Europe.

Tesla (USA)

Elon Musk's Optimus project is a long-term and highly ambitious undertaking. Although development is reportedly facing challenges such as delays and personnel changes, the strategic goal remains: the mass production of thousands of robots for use in Tesla's own factories. The stated goal of reducing the price to a spectacularly low $20,000 to $30,000 in the long term would fundamentally change the market. Commercial availability in Europe would likely only occur after successful, large-scale deployment in US factories. The Gigafactory in Berlin could play a key role in this as the first European deployment site.

Xpert.Digital has in-depth knowledge of various industries. This allows us to develop tailor-made strategies that are tailored precisely to the requirements and challenges of your specific market segment. By continually analyzing market trends and following industry developments, we can act with foresight and offer innovative solutions. Through the combination of experience and knowledge, we generate added value and give our customers a decisive competitive advantage.

More about it here:

• Use the 5 -fold competence of xpert.digital in one package – from 500 €/month

The European Avant-Garde: Local Innovators in Focus

While global giants dominate the humanoid robotics market, Europe is developing its own vanguard of highly innovative companies. These local players possess key strategic advantages: geographical proximity to the continent's key industrial markets, a deep, inherent understanding of the complex European regulatory landscape – particularly safety and CE marking requirements – and close ties to Europe's strong industrial and academic ecosystem. This chapter introduces the three leading European manufacturers whose robots meet the criteria for a payload of over 10 kg and each pursues unique technological approaches and market strategies.

Neura Robotics 4NE-1 (Germany)

Manufacturer profile

Neura Robotics, founded in 2019 in Metzingen near Stuttgart, has quickly positioned itself as the leading German high-tech company in the field of cognitive robotics. With the clear ambition to be the European answer to strong competition from the USA, the company develops not just hardware but an entire platform for intelligent robotics.

Technical performance data

The 4NE-1 ("For Anyone") is a humanoid robot measuring 1.80 m tall and weighing 80 kg. Its payload specifications are exceptional, setting it apart from all other models: the official range extends from 10 kg to an impressive 100 kg. This enormous range strongly suggests that Neura Robotics plans to develop various configurations or models of the 4NE-1, ranging from standard handling tasks to heavy-duty applications currently beyond the reach of other humanoid robots. The latest, third generation of the robot was announced for June 2025 and, according to CEO David Reger, is intended to be "the best robot on the market," raising high expectations for its capabilities.

Technology & Ecosystem

Neura Robotics' strategic approach goes far beyond pure hardware. At the heart of the vision is the "Neuraverse," an open ecosystem designed as a kind of app store for robot skills. Here, developers, partners, and customers can create, share, and potentially monetize their own applications ("skills"). Technologically, Neura relies on proprietary sensor technology to enable safe and intuitive human-robot collaboration. These include the "Omnisensor" for 3D environment recognition and "artificial skin" that can detect touch even before physical contact. Strategic partnerships with technology leaders such as NVIDIA, SAP, and Deutsche Telekom underscore the company's ambitious platform approach.

This focus on an open platform and a growing ecosystem represents a key differentiator. Instead of attempting to develop every conceivable application in-house – an approach seen at companies like Figure AI with its highly integrated AI model "Helix" for specific customer scenarios, as at BMW – Neura Robotics creates the foundation upon which other innovations can build. This is a classic platform strategy, comparable to the smartphone market, where the value of the device is massively increased by the variety of available apps. For a European customer, this potentially means greater flexibility and access to a broader range of specialized solutions developed by experts from different industries. At the same time, this approach carries the risk that the ecosystem may not grow quickly enough to realize its full potential. Choosing a 4NE-1 robot is therefore not just an investment in hardware, but also a strategic bet on the success of the Neuraverse ecosystem.

PAL Robotics TALOS (Spain)

Manufacturer profile

Founded in 2004, Barcelona-based PAL Robotics is a true pioneer in European robotics. The company developed Europe's first fully autonomous humanoid robot and boasts decades of experience in this highly complex field.

Technical performance data

The TALOS is a robust humanoid robot designed for industrial applications. It is 1.75 m tall and weighs 95 kg. Its payload is 6 kg per arm, allowing a total load capacity of 12 kg when both arms are in use, even when fully extended. Its battery life is 1.5 hours in walk mode and up to 3 hours in standby mode.

Technology & Application

TALOS is fully built on the Robot Operating System (ROS), the de facto standard in academic and industrial robotics research. This offers immense flexibility, configurability, and access to a vast global developer community. One of its outstanding technical features is the inclusion of torque sensors in all joints. This enables sensitive force-torque control, which is essential for complex interactions with the environment, such as the precise guidance of heavy industrial tools (e.g., drills or screwdrivers). Due to these capabilities and its open architecture, TALOS is a widely used platform in the European research landscape and is used in numerous EU projects and at renowned institutes such as LAAS-CNRS in France and the University of Edinburgh.

Market position

TALOS has established itself as a mature and proven research platform, now transitioning to concrete industrial applications. Its strength lies in the combination of robust, field-proven hardware and an extremely open, adaptable software architecture. This makes it particularly attractive for companies and research institutions with their own R&D departments that require more in-depth control over the robot and want to develop their own, highly specialized applications.

Oversonic RoBee (Italy)

Manufacturer profile

Oversonic, founded in 2020, is a young Italian company that, with its RoBee robot, places a clear focus on the principles of Industry 5.0 and the "Made in Italy" seal of quality. The company's vision is to create technology that supports and protects people, rather than replacing them.

Technical performance data

At 1.85 m tall and weighing up to 120 kg, the RoBee is an imposing presence. A key distinguishing feature from most other humanoid robots is its locomotion: RoBee is not a bipedal walker, but moves on omnidirectional wheels. This significantly simplifies the complex challenge of dynamic stability control, increases energy efficiency, and enables an impressive battery life of up to 8 hours. The disadvantage of this design is that the robot cannot climb stairs or negotiate very uneven terrain. A direct lifting payload is not specified, but the robot is designed to handle loads of up to 50 kg using a trolley.

Technology & Certification

RoBee is marketed as a cognitive humanoid robot that utilizes artificial intelligence for autonomous decision-making and natural language interaction via an integrated VoiceBot. Perhaps the most important milestone and a massive competitive advantage in the European market is that RoBee is already certified for industrial use in Italy. This certification implies compliance with the relevant EU Machinery Directives and gives potential customers a high degree of security and confidence in the robot's operational reliability. Worldwide distribution is handled by the SolidWorld Group. RoBee is reportedly already in use at over 60 Italian companies, indicating a remarkably high market acceptance in its home market and underscoring its practical suitability.

Procurement models and cost-benefit analysis: purchase, rental and service

The decision to introduce humanoid robots is not only a technological but also a significant financial decision. Companies must carefully consider which procurement model best fits their strategic direction, financial situation, and risk tolerance. The market essentially offers two basic options: the traditional outright purchase (a capital investment, CapEx) and the flexible rental model of robots as a service (RaaS), which is accounted for as an operating expense (OpEx). This chapter analyzes the advantages and disadvantages of both models, provides an overview of common pricing structures, and summarizes the results in a comparative table.

Direct purchase (capital expenditure – CapEx)

The direct purchase of one or more humanoid robots is the traditional form of investing in capital assets. This model offers clear advantages but also carries significant risks.

Advantages

Full ownership: The company owns the hardware and has full control over its deployment and customization.

No ongoing rental costs: After the initial investment, there are no regular rental fees, which can simplify long-term cost calculation.

Deep customization: As the owner, the company can make deep modifications to hardware and software to perfectly adapt the robot to specific needs.

Disadvantages

High initial investment: The acquisition costs for humanoid robots are considerable and require significant capital.

Risk of technological obsolescence: Robotics, and especially the underlying AI, are evolving rapidly. A robot purchased today could be outdated in terms of hardware and software in just a few years, devaluing the investment.

Full responsibility for service and maintenance: The company is responsible for maintenance, repairs, and the procurement of spare parts, which causes additional costs and internal effort.

Price overview

Purchase prices for humanoid robots are highly fluctuating and vary considerably depending on the manufacturer, model, and features. The following overview summarizes the currently known estimates and target prices:

Agility Robotics Digit: approximately $250,000

Apptronik Apollo: Target price below $50,000 for mass production

Figure AI Figure 02: Informal price around 50,000 US dollars

Unitree H1: Range from 90,000 to 150,000 US dollars, or approximately 132,000 € at European dealers

Neura Robotics 4NE-1: Prices are particularly inconsistent here, ranging from €20,000–40,000 to as much as $90,000. This discrepancy could be due to different configurations, early announcements compared to more mature pricing models, or different sales channels.

Robot as a Service (RaaS – Rental)

The RaaS model is gaining increasing traction in robotics because it mitigates many of the disadvantages of outright purchasing. Instead of purchasing the hardware, the company leases the robot's "capability" as a service.

Advantages

Lower initial costs: RaaS converts a high capital investment into predictable monthly or usage-based operating costs, significantly lowering the financial barrier to entry.

Flexibility and scalability: Companies can add robots as needed (e.g., for seasonal peaks) or adjust contracts without being tied to hardware in the long term.

Included services: RaaS contracts typically bundle maintenance, service, software updates, and support, minimizing internal costs for the operator.

Reduced technology risk: The risk of technological obsolescence remains with the provider. The customer leases a service, and the provider is responsible for keeping it up-to-date through continuous software updates and potentially even hardware upgrades.

Disadvantages

Potentially higher total costs: Over a long period of use, the cumulative rental costs can exceed those of an outright purchase.

Dependence on the provider: The company is heavily dependent on the service and stability of the RaaS provider.

The RaaS approach is more than just a financing alternative; it's a strategic tool for risk mitigation. The software and AI models that constitute the robot's actual "brain" evolve in monthly cycles. A purchase ties up capital in hardware whose core value – its intelligence – is rapidly evolving. RaaS shifts this risk to the provider. The customer leases a capability, e.g., "moving boxes per hour," and the provider must guarantee the continued performance of this service. This makes adoption for companies, especially for initial pilot projects, far more attractive and financially easier to plan for.

RaaS pricing structures

The market is experimenting with different billing models to meet customer needs:

Monthly flat rate: A fixed fee per robot per month. Typical estimates range from $4,000 to $10,000.

Pay-per-use / pay-per-pick: Costs are directly linked to the service provided, e.g., per package moved. This allows for a very transparent ROI calculation.

Hourly billing: Some providers, such as Agility Robotics, are testing models where customers pay per hour the robot effectively works.

Providers with explicit RaaS options

In particular, the US manufacturers Agility Robotics and Apptronik actively promote both models – purchase and robot as a service – and thus position themselves very flexibly on the market.

Comparative overview of acquisition and operating models

The following table summarizes the financial aspects of the leading robotics platforms to provide decision makers with a quick, comparative overview for budget planning and strategic alignment. It highlights which models offer a lower barrier to entry through RaaS and where the largest capital investments are required.

Note: All prices are estimates based on public sources and may vary significantly depending on configuration, volume, and contract terms. Conversion rate: 1 USD = 0.94 EUR.

The comparative overview of acquisition and operating models shows different robot models from various manufacturers with their estimated purchase prices, the availability of RaaS (Robot as a Service), and other details. The Apollo from Apptronik in the USA, with a target price of under €47,000, is very aggressively priced for a Western manufacturer and offers a subscription model for the robot, software, and service. The Figure 02 from Figure AI, also from the USA, costs around €47,000, but no public RaaS offerings are known; the company focuses on large strategic customers such as BMW. The Digit from Agility Robotics in the USA, at around €235,000, is in the upper price segment, but offers comprehensive subscriptions and is testing hourly billing, making RaaS an attractive alternative to the high purchase price. Phoenix from Sanctuary AI in Canada has no known procurement models, as its focus is primarily on technology development and commercial models are still unclear. The H1 from Unitree in China ranges in price from €85,000 to €140,000 and is currently only available for direct purchase through distributors, although its aggressive pricing is striking compared to Western counterparts. The 4NE-1 from Neura Robotics in Germany has a broad price range, ranging from €20,000 to €85,000, although no information on RaaS models is available; the wide price range suggests various models and configurations. TALOS from PAL Robotics in Spain is primarily intended as a purchase model for research and development customers; older rental models for competitors are known, but there is no standard RaaS offering. Finally, the RoBee from Oversonic in Italy is distributed through partners such as the SolidWorld Group, although the models are unclear; the focus is on direct sales to industrial customers in Italy.

At a time when a company's digital presence determines its success, the challenge is how to make this presence authentic, individual and far-reaching. Xpert.Digital offers an innovative solution that positions itself as an intersection between an industry hub, a blog and a brand ambassador. It combines the advantages of communication and sales channels in a single platform and enables publication in 18 different languages. The cooperation with partner portals and the possibility of publishing articles on Google News and a press distribution list with around 8,000 journalists and readers maximize the reach and visibility of the content. This represents an essential factor in external sales & marketing (SMarketing).

More about it here:

• Authentic. Individually. Global: The Xpert.Digital strategy for your company

Comprehensive performance, service and security comparison

After reviewing the market landscape and financial models, the core of the analysis follows: a direct comparison of the robot platforms in terms of their technical performance, available service ecosystems, and – a crucial factor for deployment in Europe – their safety and certification. This chapter provides the data-driven foundation for a well-founded technological selection decision.

Technical performance comparison of humanoid robots

The physical capabilities of a humanoid robot largely determine its range of applications. The following table compares the key technical performance data of the analyzed models, enabling an objective, data-based comparison.

The technical performance comparison of humanoid robots shows various models and their characteristics. The Apollo offers a payload of 25 kg, a runtime of 4 hours per battery, is 173 cm tall, weighs 72.6 kg, and features a bipedal, modular design with a hot-swappable battery. Figure 02 has a payload of 20 kg, reaches a maximum speed of 1.2 m/s, runs for 5 hours, is 168 cm tall, and weighs 60 kg; this robot is also bipedal and electrically powered. The Digit carries 16 kg, has a unique leg design, is 175 cm tall, weighs 65 kg, and has 16 degrees of freedom. Phoenix, on the other hand, can lift 25 kg, travels up to 1.34 m/s (approximately 3 mph), measures 170 cm, weighs 70 kg, and has 20 degrees of freedom in its hands; it focuses particularly on hand dexterity. The Unitree H1 boasts the highest speed of 3.3 m/s, a payload of 30 kg, is 180 cm tall, weighs just 47 kg, and has 22 degrees of freedom (M version), providing an excellent payload-to-weight ratio. The 4NE-1 covers a payload range of 10 to 100 kg, can operate 24/7 thanks to its dual battery, measures 180 cm, weighs 80 kg, and is designed for heavy-duty applications. TALOS has a payload of 12 kg (6 kg per arm), reaches a speed of 0.83 m/s (3 km/h), runs for 1.5 hours while walking, is 175 cm tall, weighs 95 kg, and has 32 degrees of freedom with force-torque control. Finally, RoBee, which is wheeled and omnidirectional, has a payload of 50 kg with trolley, reaches 1.2 m/s, runs for 8 hours, is the largest at 185 cm, weighs 120 kg and has a long running time.

Analysis of performance data

The table reveals the robots' different specializations at a glance. The Unitree H1 stands out with its record-breaking speed and outstanding payload-to-weight ratio, indicating a highly efficient mechanical and drive design. The Neura Robotics 4NE-1, with its potential payload of up to 100 kg, positions itself as a unique option for heavy-duty applications that go far beyond package lifting. Apollo and Phoenix offer a very high payload of 25 kg in a human-like form factor, ideal for demanding manufacturing and logistics tasks. The Oversonic RoBee sacrifices the off-road capability of a bipedal walker in favor of an extremely long operating time of 8 hours and the stability of a wheeled platform, making it ideal for use on flat industrial floors.

A critical factor to consider when evaluating performance data is the ambiguity of the term "payload." A single number used in marketing can be misleading and requires careful scrutiny. The figures provided by Neura Robotics (up to 100 kg), Apptronik (25 kg), and Oversonic ("handling 50 kg with a cart") are not directly comparable. A robot's maximum lifting capacity depends on a variety of factors: the position of the load relative to the body's center of gravity, the posture of the arms, the dynamics of the movement (static lifting vs. dynamic carrying), and the type of gripping. A lifting operation close to the body is mechanically fundamentally different from holding a heavy load with the arm fully extended, where enormous leverage forces are applied. Therefore, it is essential for potential buyers to ask manufacturers precisely: Under what specific conditions was the payload measured? Does the value apply to one or both arms? How does the maximum load affect the robot's stability, movement speed, and battery life? Careful clarification of these questions is crucial to correctly dimension a robot for a specific application and to avoid costly mistakes in practical use.

Service and support ecosystems

The best hardware is useless without a robust ecosystem for service, support, and software. For European companies, the availability of local support is a critical criterion for operational reliability and minimizing downtime. The opening of a Boston Dynamics European office in Germany is a prime example of this and sets a gold standard. It offers local sales, service, and field application engineering, signaling a strong commitment to the European market. Manufacturers without such a local presence face the challenge of ensuring a comparable level of service through distributors or partner networks.

In the area of software and the continuous development of robot capabilities, two main strategies are emerging. On the one hand, there is the open platform approach of Neura Robotics with its Neuraverse. This app store model invites a community of developers to create new capabilities, potentially leading to a wide variety of specialized applications. On the other hand, there are companies like Figure AI, which develop a highly integrated, closed system with their own AI model (Helix) optimized for specific customer applications. This approach promises potentially more seamless and robust performance for the defined tasks, but offers less flexibility for customization. Cloud platforms like Agility Arc play a central role in managing entire robot fleets, assigning tasks, and monitoring performance in real time.

For integration into existing IT infrastructures (such as warehouse management systems or manufacturing execution systems), the quality of the software development kits (SDKs) and application programming interfaces (APIs) is crucial. The openness of platforms based on ROS (such as TALOS from PAL Robotics) traditionally offers the greatest flexibility here. Other manufacturers offer SDKs for common programming languages such as Android/Java (Blue Frog) or Kotlin (Furhat). Universal programming interfaces, such as those provided by software such as RoboDK, can standardize programming across different robot brands. The NVIDIA Isaac platform, which has established itself as the de facto standard for simulating and training AI models for many of these humanoid robots, is playing an increasingly important role.

Safety and certification: The license to operate in Europe

For the commercial use of robots in Europe, compliance with strict safety regulations is non-negotiable. This represents a significant hurdle for manufacturers, but offers a crucial level of safety and confidence for buyers. However, the current regulatory framework is not yet fully developed for the new class of bipedal, dynamically stable humanoid robots.

The CE marking is the basic requirement for placing a product on the market in the European Economic Area. It is not a seal of quality, but rather a self-declaration by the manufacturer that the product complies with applicable EU directives, in particular the Machinery Directive (2006/42/EC). To demonstrate this conformity, manufacturers rely on harmonized standards.

However, this creates a regulatory gap. The established ISO 10218 standard (revised 2025) is primarily tailored to stationary industrial robots and their integration. Although the new version covers important aspects such as collaborative applications (it integrates the content of the previous ISO/TS 15066) and, for the first time, cybersecurity as part of functional safety, it does not address the specific risks of mobile, bipedal robots. The ISO 13482 standard for personal service robots is more relevant, as it is the first standard to permit physical contact between humans and robots, but it is not explicitly designed for harsh industrial environments.

The key new risk posed by bipedal humanoids is their "dynamic stability." Unlike a robot on wheels or with a fixed arm, a bipedal robot requires constant energy and active control just to remain upright. A sudden power failure or system failure can cause the robot to fall over uncontrollably – a completely new hazard that is not adequately addressed in current standards.

Companies that proactively address this gap gain a significant competitive advantage. Agility Robotics' initiative to drive the development of the new ISO 25875 standard specifically for "dynamically stable industrial mobile manipulators" is a strategically brilliant move. By helping to shape the future rules of the game, they can tailor them to their own technology and position themselves as thought leaders in safety. Likewise, the industrial certification already achieved by the Oversonic RoBee in Italy is concrete, marketable proof of compliance with safety standards and a strong selling point for risk-conscious European customers. For any buyer, a clear, understandable, and certified safety concept is an absolute knockout criterion.

Manufacturers pursue different technical approaches to ensuring safety. Apptronik relies on its sensitive force control. Agility Robotics integrates a dedicated safety PLC (programmable logic controller) and uses safety protocols such as FSoE (FailSafe over EtherCAT). Neura Robotics develops proprietary sensor technology such as "artificial skin" and the "Omnisensor," which are designed to enable contactless hazard detection.

Strategic recommendations and outlook for European companies

The analysis of the technology, the market, and available platforms shows that humanoid robots are on the cusp of widespread industrial use. It is now time for European companies to develop a proactive strategy to harness the potential of this transformative technology. This chapter outlines concrete use cases, provides a framework for evaluating return on investment (ROI), and provides recommendations for a phased introduction.

Identification of high-potential use cases

Based on the capabilities of the robots presented, clear high-potential use cases for key European industries can be derived:

Logistics & Warehousing

In this sector, which is heavily characterized by manual handling and labor shortages, humanoid robots offer enormous efficiency potential. Typical tasks include:

Tote handling: Picking up, transporting, and placing standardized storage containers is an ideal entry-level application. Robots like the Agility Digit are specifically optimized for this task.

Loading and unloading AMRs: Humanoid robots can serve as a flexible interface between conveyor belts and autonomous mobile robots (AMRs), transferring goods from one system to another. Digit's integration with AMRs from MiR and Zebra Technologies is already demonstrating this potential in practice.

Palletizing and depalletizing: Stacking boxes on pallets is a physically demanding and repetitive task that is well suited to robots like the Apptronik Apollo.

Manufacturing & Machine Tending

In the manufacturing industry, humanoids can increase flexibility and relieve human employees of monotonous tasks.

Machine loading: Inserting raw parts into CNC machines, presses or other production systems and removing the finished parts is a classic application.

Assembly tasks: The ability to handle tools and perform precise movements qualifies robots such as the PAL TALOS or the Figure 02 for complex assembly steps, as tested in the pilot projects at BMW and Mercedes-Benz.

Quality control: Equipped with cameras and sensors, humanoids can perform visual inspections and check parts for defects.

Challenging environments: Humanoid robots can be deployed where work is dangerous, unhealthy, or ergonomically unsafe for humans. The Oversonic RoBee, for example, is designed to work in environments that pose psychophysical risks to humans and can thus significantly improve workplace safety.

A framework for ROI evaluation

Calculating the return on investment for a humanoid robot is more complex than simply comparing robot costs with labor savings. Decision makers should use a comprehensive framework that considers both direct and indirect value drivers:

Direct cost savings

Labor costs: Costs for the human workforce whose tasks the robot takes over (including social security contributions, etc.).

Reduction of errors: Costs caused by human errors (e.g. scrap, rework).

Costs of work-related accidents: Savings in insurance premiums, medical expenses, and lost time by reducing accidents in hazardous work areas.

Productivity increases

Increased uptime: Robots can potentially operate in three shifts, 24/7, massively increasing throughput and plant utilization.

Increased efficiency: Constant, optimized work speed without breaks or fatigue.

Qualitative and strategic advantages

Increased flexibility: The ability to quickly reprogram a robot to perform new tasks increases production agility.

Improved data quality: Robots collect data with every action that can be used to optimize processes.

Employee development: Human employees can be relieved of monotonous tasks and qualified for higher-value activities (e.g., monitoring, problem solving, quality management).

The payback period of "less than two years," often cited by manufacturers, is an ambitious goal. However, it is quite realistic in high-volume, multi-shift applications where one robot can replace several human workers.

Recommendations for a phased introduction

The introduction of such a new technology should be strategic and gradual to minimize risks and maximize success. A three-phase approach is recommended:

Phase 1: Strategic Observation & Partner Screening (3-6 months)

Use this article as a starting point to actively monitor the market. Identify the two to three most promising robot platforms for your specific use cases. Contact the manufacturers and their local sales or integration partners to obtain detailed technical and commercial information.

Phase 2: Pilot projects (6-12 months)

Start with a clearly defined, manageable pilot project in a controlled environment. Choose a use case with clear success criteria. The Robot as a Service (RaaS) model is the ideal, low-risk option for this. It allows you to gain valuable hands-on experience with the technology, test employee acceptance, and validate actual performance without requiring a large capital investment.

Phase 3: Scaling and Integration (from 12 months)

After a successful pilot project, the use of robots can be gradually expanded to other areas or locations. During this phase, building internal expertise for the operation, maintenance, and adaptation of the robot fleet is crucial. Integration into higher-level IT systems (MES, WMS) becomes a key success factor.

The future of humanoid robotics in Europe

Developments in humanoid robotics are accelerating exponentially. Two key trends will significantly drive adoption in the coming years:

Cost development

Similar to other technologies, economies of scale in production, falling component prices, and increasing competition, especially from aggressive suppliers from China, will lead to a significant price decline. The vision of robots costing no more than a mid-range car (under €50,000) is becoming a reality and will make the technology accessible to a wider range of companies.

AI development

The biggest leap will come from the software side. The next generation of AI foundation models, such as those being developed with NVIDIA's Project GR00T, will revolutionize robot capabilities. Instead of being reprogrammed for each task, robots will be able to learn complex tasks by watching videos or through a few human demonstrations (imitation learning) and independently improve their skills through interaction with the world (reinforcement learning).

This represents a crucial opportunity for Europe. To compete globally in Industry 5.0 and ensure their own productivity and resilience, European companies must evaluate and adapt this technology early on. Close collaboration between innovative industries (especially the automotive sector), excellent research institutions (such as DLR and Fraunhofer), and emerging European robot manufacturers will be the key to successfully shaping this next wave of automation and consolidating and expanding Europe's technological leadership. The time to act is now.

☑️ SME support in strategy, consulting, planning and implementation

☑️ Creation or realignment of the digital strategy and digitalization

☑️ Expansion and optimization of international sales processes

☑️ Global & Digital B2B trading platforms

☑️ Pioneer Business Development

 

I would be happy to serve as your personal advisor.

You can contact me by filling out the contact form below or simply call me on +49 89 89 674 804 (Munich) .

I'm looking forward to our joint project.

 

 

Xpert.Digital is a hub for industry with a focus on digitalization, mechanical engineering, logistics/intralogistics and photovoltaics.

With our 360° business development solution, we support well-known companies from new business to after sales.

Market intelligence, smarketing, marketing automation, content development, PR, mail campaigns, personalized social media and lead nurturing are part of our digital tools.

You can find more at: www.xpert.digital – www.xpert.solar – www.xpert.plus