Hangzhou AI Traffic Robot Hits the Streets

A humanoid traffic robot has started duty at the intersection of Binsheng Road and Changhe Road in Binjiang District of Hangzhou City, turning heads among passers-by and drivers alike.

It is "Hangxing No. 1," an artificial intelligence (AI) traffic management robot recently enlisted by Hangzhou Traffic Police.

Syncing with traffic light changes, the robot, clad in the iconic fluorescent green traffic police uniform and moving on omni-directional wheels, waves to signal drivers and passers-by, controling the traffic with smooth and precise gestures. It instantly detects traffic rule violations, including helmet non-compliance or over-the-line parking, and sends out reminders in a polite yet patient tone.

"Real traffic police officers' command gestures and on-site management experience served as training materials for the robot," explained Zhang Wanzhe, a police officer from the Binjiang Traffic Police Brigade. "By integrating real-world intersection data, 'Hangxing No. 1' has grown increasingly intelligent. It now switches seamlessly between 'traffic guidance' and 'civil persuasion' modes, automatically adjusting its commands based on traffic lights."

Since October, "Hangxing No. 1" has undergone field tests at several road junctions in Binjiang. Looking ahead, such robots will be promoted to more places citywide, including the West Lake and Qianjiang New Town.

In the future, large language models will be integrated to enable voice interaction and command control, supporting public services like route inquiries, traffic advisory and safety education.

Hangzhou Traffic Police are also developing new-generation robots and exploring the establishment of a "Hangzhou AI Traffic Management Robot Team."