Xpeng's IRON humanoid robot with catwalk stumbles at stage event

Xpeng, the Chinese electric vehicle maker, recently showcased its second-generation IRON humanoid robot at a Shenzhen shopping mall, demonstrating advances in movement, balance, and humanlike interaction ahead of a planned mass rollout in 2026. The robot impressed audiences with a fluid, model-like catwalk enabled by a five-degree-of-freedom spine and sophisticated hip structure, as well as a 3D-printed fascia layer that mimics human musculature to smooth movements and reduce vibrations. Standing 5 feet 10 inches tall and weighing 154 pounds, IRON features 62 active joints and 22 degrees of freedom in each hand, allowing for precise and natural motions. Its dynamic facial display and soft synthetic skin contribute to a warmer, more approachable design intended for retail and home environments. Despite the smooth initial demonstration, IRON lost its balance and fell backward on stage, an incident quickly caught by staff and widely shared online, sparking significant discussion about the challenges still facing humanoid robotics.