(Yicai) March 19 -- Shares of Dobot Robotics advanced after the Chinese manufacturer of collaborative robot arms kicked off pre-sales for its first humanoid robot called Atom, priced at CNY199,000 (USD27,530).

Dobot [HKG: 2432] closed 6.4 percent higher at HKD72.70 (USD9.40) in Hong Kong today. After the startup's listing last December, the shares have more than tripled in value.

The Shenzhen-based firm yesterday launched pre-sales for Atom, the world's first humanoid robot featuring both dexterous five-finger hands and a straight-knee gait. Mass production is expected to begin by June.

Atom's core components and software systems are developed in-house. The robot employs Dobot's self-developed neural dexterity operating system and an anthropomorphic walking system, enabling versatile applications across industrial and service scenarios.

Standing at 1.5 meters tall and weighing 62 kilograms, Atom boasts a 1:1 human-arm design and 41 degrees of freedom across its body, capable of performing high-accuracy tasks such as welding electronic components and calibrating instruments, tasks requiring a high level of stability. Moreover, it can navigate narrow spaces with ease due to its humanlike gait.

To date, Dobot Atom has mastered over 100 tasks using various tools. It can prepare breakfast, host corporate clients, pour coffee, deliver documents, and retrieve parcels. The startup has piloted Atom in collaboration with top automotive manufacturers, electronics factories, and major beverage chains.

Founded in 2015, Dobot is mainly known for companion robots and desktop-grade robotic arms, widely used in consumer electronics, healthcare, and retail.

Editor: Emmi Laine