Swiss engineering firm ABB announced on Wednesday that it is launching three new series of factory robots tailored specifically for the Chinese market, aiming to tap into growing demand for automation among mid-sized businesses. The new robots—named Lite+, PoWa, and IRB1200—will support industries such as electronics, food and beverage, and metals by performing tasks like product placement and polishing along production lines. The robots are designed to handle varying loads and operate at different speeds based on customer requirements.

ABB stated that China’s mid-market robotics segment, where robots typically perform simpler tasks such as packaging, basic inspection, and pick-and-place operations, is projected to grow at a rate of 8% annually over the next three years—outpacing global growth in the sector. As automation becomes more user-friendly and accessible, demand is rising in China’s mid-market space, partly driven by ongoing labor shortages. “Thanks to AI, these robots are easier to operate, making them more attractive to companies that previously didn’t use them,” said Sami Atiya, president of ABB’s robotics and discrete automation division.

Some of the new models can be up and running within an hour of unboxing. They can be programmed through voice commands or by observing the tasks they need to perform. Pricing for these robots, including controllers and equipment, ranges from approximately $20,000 to over $100,000. China, which installed over half (51%) of all new industrial robots globally in 2023, is ABB’s largest market for robots, accounting for around 30% of its robotics business.

Despite potential U.S. tariffs on Chinese imports, Atiya expressed confidence that China’s robust domestic demand and labor challenges would continue to fuel growth, minimizing tariff impact. The new robots will be manufactured at ABB’s facility in Shanghai. Earlier this year, ABB announced plans to spin off its robotics division, which competes with Japan’s FANUC, Yaskawa, and Germany’s Kuka. Atiya confirmed that the spin-off remains on track for completion by Q2 2026, though he declined to discuss potential valuation or interest from buyers. “We’re open to any interested parties, but our main objective remains the spin-off,” he said.