Unitree, a Chinese robotics manufacturer, went public on the Shanghai Stock Exchange STAR Market on August 19. The company currently employs at least 480 people. Following its IPO, the company's shares dropped 50 percent from their peak, resulting in a market valuation of approximately $30 billion.
Founder Wang maintains a strict micromanagement style, personally approving expenses over ¥100 and overseeing design details. Reports indicate high staff turnover in 2025 and 2026. While the company has achieved profitability, its primary clients remain universities and research institutions.
The company produces the G1 humanoid robot for $13,500 and the R1 model for $4,900. These low prices stem from specific structural engineering choices. However, the focus on cost-cutting has historically led to high return rates for repairs, though warranty-period reliability has reportedly improved.
China's Ministry of Industry and Information Technology projects the production of over 100,000 humanoid robots in 2026, up from 14,000 globally in 2025. Meanwhile, the US government banned imports of Chinese-made robots, including Unitree products, effective July 28, impacting research access.
