How Renault will transform auto production with humanoid robots Calvin-40

The Renault Group has announced the implementation of 350 humanoid robots, named Calvin-40, in its factories by 2027, with the aim of reducing production time per vehicle by 30%. These robots, developed in collaboration with the startup Wandercraft, are capable of carrying loads of up to 40 kg and are equipped with cameras and LED lights to communicate their status. Thierry Charvet, Renault's production and quality director, demonstrated how they can repeatedly lift sets of tires at the factory in Douai, France. Renault aims to shorten the production time for electric models, such as the Renault 5 and Twingo, to 10 hours or less. This initiative places Renault among the leaders in the use of humanoid robots in the automotive industry, alongside Tesla, Hyundai, and Mercedes-Benz. Charvet emphasizes that, although the robots have a human shape, the priority is efficiency and reduced costs in automation. Calvin-40 will enable the automation of workstations where it was not possible before, having the advantage of carrying heavy loads in confined spaces.