Xiaomi delivers on Tesla’s decade-old robot charger vision with new home robotic arm

Xiaomi unveiled a home robotic arm charger on October 18, 2024, that autonomously plugs and unplugs electric vehicles. This device fulfills a concept that Tesla prototyped more than ten years ago but did not commercialize. The charger is 152 mm wide, designed for narrow home garages, and connects to Xiaomi's smart home system for control via smartphone. The robotic arm can extend up to 1.5 meters and is capable of identifying the charging port with its integrated camera and sensors. It is designed to handle various charging connectors, including Type 1 and Type 2 standards. Xiaomi stated that the charger is compatible with their SU7 electric vehicle and aims to provide a seamless charging experience for users. The company has not yet announced pricing or availability details for the charger, but it represents a significant step in home EV charging automation. This innovation addresses a common inconvenience for EV owners, particularly those with limited mobility or in challenging parking situations. The integration with Xiaomi's existing smart home platform suggests a future where home appliances and vehicles operate in a more connected and automated manner. The robotic arm's ability to precisely locate and connect to the charging port highlights advancements in robotic vision and manipulation technology.