New Tesla Optimus rival: Leak reveals first details about BYD’s AI robot
The name alone suggests that BYD wants its AI robot to appear approachable. Xiao Di is a play on the Chinese word “Xiao,” meaning small, and the shortened brand name “Di,” roughly translating to “little BYD.” An interesting side note is that BYD refers to the AI robot as female. This strategy fits neatly into the company’s long-term plans. Executive Vice President Stella Li previously said that each BYD dealership could eventually employ two or three humanoid robots as sales assistants. They could greet customers, explain EVs and conduct demonstrations.
A full-fledged robotics battle is now emerging in China’s auto industry. Chery is already selling its first Aimoga AI robots, while SAIC-GM uses wheeled robots in manufacturing. BYD, meanwhile, plans to deploy Xiao Di in its own factories and hundreds of showrooms. The prototype’s rumored public debut in August could significantly intensify the competition with Tesla Optimus.
