In Hangzhou, a national-level pilot base is propelling the integration of embodied intelligence robots across various industries. Described by Zhou Chen, CEO of DexRobot, as a “kindergarten for robots,” the facility focuses on providing basic capabilities to robots and gradually enhancing their functionalities. Officially known as the National Pilot Base for Embodied AI Applications, this center is part of China’s strategic framework for advancing AI technology.
The Hangzhou Embodied Intelligence Exhibition and Application Promotion Center, serving as the flagship facility of the base, caters to the data requirements for robot training. Currently, it accommodates over 140 embodied intelligent robots deployed in nearly 40 application scenarios and around 20 data collection settings. These robots are being trained to perform various tasks, such as cooking, with one company focusing on creating a fully automated smart kitchen where robots handle movement, operation, and interaction tasks.
Yang Jiandang, co-founder of the company working on the smart kitchen project and deputy director of the base’s robot perception and learning lab, emphasized the significance of the base in providing essential scenario-building and technical support. By offering a conducive environment for early-stage development, the base addresses challenges like high developmental costs and lack of suitable testing grounds. Moreover, the base offers public technical services encompassing computing resources, data access, and model validation for companies working on AI projects.
Hangzhou has allocated over 100 million yuan annually for three years to bolster AI initiatives, resulting in substantial growth in the AI sector. In 2025, the city’s AI core industry generated revenue amounting to 460 billion yuan, marking a 23.1% increase year on year. This robust investment underscores Hangzhou’s commitment to becoming a leading hub for AI innovation and development in the region.
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