日本为何完全放弃人形机器人?
SoftBankSoftBank(US:SFTBY) 虎嗅APP·2025-12-20 03:27

Core Viewpoint - Japan has largely abandoned the humanoid robot sector, focusing instead on industrial robots due to past failures and a lack of commercial viability in humanoid robotics [6][8][10]. Group 1: Humanoid Robots - Japan entered the humanoid robot market early but faced significant losses, leading to a strategic withdrawal from this sector [8][10]. - Notable humanoid robots like ASIMO and Pepper experienced development and production halts, with ASIMO priced at $2.5 million and Pepper at ¥198,000, resulting in low sales volumes [10][12]. - The Japanese market has shifted focus away from humanoid robots, emphasizing that there is no necessity for robots to resemble humans [12][18]. Group 2: Industrial Robots - Japan excels in industrial robotics, with companies like FANUC, Yaskawa, and Kawasaki holding significant market shares [27][28]. - The global industrial robot market is projected to account for approximately 71.4% of total revenue by 2024, indicating a strong demand for industrial robots [25]. - Japan's industrial robots are characterized by high reliability and long operational lifespans, often exceeding 20 years [39][40]. Group 3: Economic and Technological Factors - Japan's technological landscape lacks the maturity seen in the U.S. and China regarding AI and large models, which are crucial for advanced robotics [20][21]. - The country faces challenges in talent acquisition, particularly in AI and engineering, which hampers innovation in humanoid robotics [21][22]. - Japan's economic structure and risk aversion contribute to its cautious approach to new robotic technologies, preferring stability over rapid innovation [22][23]. Group 4: Market Dynamics - The demand for humanoid robots is currently limited, with most buyers being experimental or marketing-oriented rather than seeking mass production [17][19]. - Japan's industrial robots are designed for B2B applications, maintaining profitability and stability, contrasting with the more speculative nature of humanoid robotics [29][30]. - The Japanese robotics industry is largely self-sufficient, relying on domestic components, which enhances reliability and reduces dependency on imports [40][42].