“FRANKFURT. The robotics company Neura has entered into a partnership with the automotive and industrial supplier Schaeffler, a move that is expected to boost hopes for the success of German-made humanoid robots. As both companies announced on Tuesday in Metzingen and Herzogenaurach – their respective headquarters – they intend to cooperate in the development and supply of key components for humanoid robots. The agreement also includes a major order: Schaeffler will purchase several thousand Neura robots by 2035 and deploy them at its global production sites, the companies stated. The value of the order was not disclosed but is said to be in the mid-three-digit million euro range.
Neura founder David Reger believes that humanoid robots will play a leading role in industrial production and that his company will sell several million units by 2030. He emphasized that this is a key technology in which Germany must be a pioneer – also to compensate for the loss of industrial capacity in other areas. He added that with Schaeffler, one of Germany's largest and most experienced industrial companies is underscoring "that you can't wait for new technologies, but must actively drive them forward." Schaeffler's Chief Operating Officer, Andreas Schick, called humanoid robotics an important growth area for Schaeffler, and described Neura as one of the most innovative companies in Europe.
In an interview with the Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung (F.A.Z.) in the spring, Klaus Rosenfeld, CEO of Schaeffler, outlined how he envisions the integration of humanoid robots into his company. While Schaeffler is primarily perceived as an automotive supplier, its core competencies lie in precision mechanics and motion technology. This, he said, ideally matches the requirements placed on humanoid robots.
For his company, the goal is to reduce its current dependence on the automotive business. "We want to become one of the leading suppliers in the field of humanoid robots," he said. "This is exactly where..." "We were asked what we can do." Especially since humanoids alone have 25 to 30 joints where Schaeffler components could be used. The company from Franconia is already cooperating with the American startups Agility Robotics and Sanctuary AI, as well as with the chip and software giants Nvidia and Microsoft. "With humanoids, it's a question of price, efficiency, and production volume that will determine success," said Rosenfeld. Schaeffler already has humanoids in use at a location in the United States. The cooperation with Neura is also intended to create new momentum in this field.” [1]
Let’s compare Neura's humanoids with the Chinese humanoids:
Neura Robotics' humanoids emphasize safe, collaborative work in real-world human environments, featuring advanced sensor skin and continuous learning through a proprietary AI stack. In contrast, Chinese humanoids are characterized by rapid mass production, diverse applications (from service to industrial), and strong state support aimed at establishing a scalable supply chain.
Neura Robotics (German)
Focus on Safety and Collaboration: Neura's 4NE1 robot is explicitly designed for safe human-robot interaction, utilizing dynamic force feedback sensors and "artificial skin" to adjust to pressure instantly. It operates without protective cages, unlike many traditional industrial robots.
Advanced Cognition and AI: The robots possess advanced perception and planning systems, using pre-trained vision-language models and reinforcement learning to recognize objects and navigate dynamic environments. This allows for voice commands and non-scripted instructions.
Proprietary Technology Stack: Neura emphasizes developing its core technology, including AI software and sensors, in Germany and has relocated production from China to maintain control and technological leadership.
Applications: The 4NE1 is targeted for use in warehouses, manufacturing, retail, and healthcare, while the MiPA is a cognitive service robot aimed at household chores and elder care.
Chinese Humanoids
Mass Production and Cost-Effectiveness: Chinese companies like Unitree are rapidly transitioning from development to large-scale production, focusing on making humanoids more affordable and quickly deployable.
Diverse Use Cases: China's strategy includes a wide range of applications, from ultra-realistic social robots for museum exhibits and therapy (Ex-Robots) to functional industrial and domestic units (Unitree, Xpeng).
Government Strategy: The Chinese government views humanoids as a national strategic priority, aiming to lead in AI technology and establish an independent, scalable supply chain for components.
Technical Approaches: Approaches vary; some focus on high dexterity and mobility (Unitree H1), while others explore advanced social intelligence and human-like expression. There are also ongoing discussions about security and potential vulnerabilities in some Chinese-made models.
Neura Robotics (German), model 4NE-1 - Likely mid-to-high range (estimated $50,000 - $100,000+), based on general market trends for advanced commercial/industrial humanoids. Specific price is not publicly confirmed.
Chinese Manufacturers, models Unitree R1, Noetix Bumi, Engine AI SA01 $1,380 - $42,000.
1. Humanoide von Neura für Schaeffler. Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung; Frankfurt. 05 Nov 2025: 18.
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