News, 22 July 2025
Chinese autonomous driving technology developer iMotion Automotive Technology is stepping up its efforts in the robotics sector by announcing plans to manufacture critical components for industrial robots.
iMotion announced partnership with Horizon Robotics, an AI chip developer for autonomous vehicles, to jointly develop the iMotion iRC100 robotic controller, which serves as the “brain” orchestrating the movements of industrial robotic arms.
This latest move comes shortly after iMotion unveiled a refinancing plan to raise HK$230.7 million by selling 15.5 million shares listed in Hong Kong at HK$15.22 apiece (US$1.94).
According to a filing with the Hong Kong stock exchange, iMotion stated that the iRC100 will be a comprehensive solution integrating hardware design and manufacturing, core software systems, middleware frameworks, and AI model deployment. The company emphasized its capability to offer customized products and technologies for its clients.
In March, iMotion indicated its intention to combine robotics and autonomous driving technologies, focusing especially on visual perception and multimodal interaction capabilities.
The company’s drive into robotics comes amid a volatile market, with iMotion shares falling 5.2% to HK$16.10 on Monday; since announcing the refinancing plan on July 13, the stock has declined 3.7%.
Proceeds from the fundraising will be used to strengthen research and development in advanced intelligent driving technologies and digital cockpit solutions.
Over the past two years, Chinese autonomous driving system providers have been expanding their reach both domestically and internationally, leveraging rapid advancements in technology and growth in China’s electric vehicle sector. Leading companies such as Baidu, WeRide, and Pony.ai are running pilot robotaxi programs in major cities, including Beijing, Shanghai, and Wuhan. These robotaxis feature Level 4 autonomy, operating without human intervention in most scenarios according to SAE International standards.
iMotion’s IPO in Hong Kong at the end of 2023 raised HK$655.7 million from the flotation of 22.11 million shares. The IPO occurred amid a wave of Chinese smart mobility companies looking to Hong Kong for capital, as global investors increase investments in Asian equities—particularly undervalued Chinese industrial firms.
Industry experts anticipate more major listings from EV makers such as Chery Automobile and Seres Group, along with autonomous driving specialists like Pony.ai, further bolstering China’s visibility on the global automotive technology stage. Some upcoming deals could reach over US$1 billion, according to investment bankers.
