tl;dr
Paris-based Wandercraft, known for its exoskeleton that helped a paraplegic man walk at the 2024 Olympics, is shifting focus to fully autonomous humanoid robots. Their new robot, Calvin 40, built in 40 days using exoskeleton technology, is being tested on factory floors, including by Renault Group. ...
Wandercraft, a Paris-based leader in exoskeleton technology, has rapidly developed Calvin 40, a rugged humanoid robot optimized for industrial tasks without human-like hands or a head. Built in just 40 days by repurposing exoskeleton technology, Calvin 40 is designed to carry heavy payloads up to 40 kg—nearly double the capacity of competitors such as Tesla’s Optimus or Figure AI’s Figure 02.
The robot's omission of expressive features like hands and a head helps avoid fragility and the uncanny valley effect, focusing instead on durable and effective performance in hard-to-staff or hazardous environments. Calvin 40 uses padded, arm-like grippers to handle boxes and crates, emphasizing physical labor in spaces designed for humans.
Wandercraft’s CEO Matthieu Masselin highlights that their decade of experience in exoskeleton development uniquely positions them to deliver a humanoid robot capable of carrying heavier loads than others in the market. The Calvin 40 is currently undergoing testing in partnership with Renault Group, aiming to enhance workplace safety and efficiency by automating challenging industrial tasks.
The global humanoid robot market is projected to reach $38 billion by 2035, fueled by AI and automation advances. While many developers focus on social or personal assistance robots, Wandercraft is carving out a niche in durable, payload-focused humanoids capable of navigating human-designed environments and tackling physically demanding jobs.
By leveraging proven exoskeleton technology, Wandercraft aims to bypass lengthy experimental phases and swiftly deploy robots like Calvin 40 to handle dangerous or difficult tasks, allowing human workers to concentrate on quality and craftsmanship.