France is expanding its expertise in robotics. Research, artificial intelligence and specialised applications are among the sector’s strengths. At the same time, demand for robotics is rising: there is a shortage of labour, whilst international competitive and cost pressures are forcing the industry to increase productivity and efficiency.
One example of this development is Calvin. Since June 2026, the bipedal robot developed by the French robotics start-up Wandercraft has been undergoing testing at the Renault factory in Douai. There, Calvin carries out physically demanding tasks and transports tyres. It is capable of carrying between 40 and 50 kilograms.
The collaboration between the Renault Group and Wandercraft began in October 2024. Renault defined the functional requirements and use cases, whilst Wandercraft developed the technical solution. The robot was gradually moved from the laboratories, via the innovation centre in Flins, to the factory. After eight months, Renault announced a stake in Wandercraft and a partnership.
Calvin differs from traditional industrial robots: thanks to physical AI, it can perceive its surroundings, adapt to them and take on a variety of tasks. Its deployment is intended to improve working conditions for staff by taking over particularly strenuous tasks.
Renault is taking a step-by-step approach. Around ten robots are set to be in operation by the end of 2026, rising to a total of 350 in French and Spanish plants by the end of 2027. Further development is also expected to enable the robots to perform more intricate tasks in areas such as bodywork construction and paint finishing.
The growth of the French robotics sector also opens up opportunities for collaboration with German companies. Among other things, there is demand for precision bearings, actuators, gearboxes and drives, sensors, cameras, as well as batteries and energy management systems. France is also supporting the sector with 800 million euros from the France 2030 innovation programme.
Calvin thus serves as a prime example of how research, start-ups and industry can work together to gradually integrate robotics into production.
