3 humanoid robot stocks to buy as leading U.S. maker targets 10x output

Citi has identified three Chinese component manufacturers that stand to benefit from the anticipated surge in humanoid robot production, as the leading U.S. robot maker gears up to nearly tenfold its weekly output. By October 2026, the company could be churning out around 1,500 units weekly, potentially increasing to 2,000 to 2,500 units per week by early 2027 and reaching 8,000 units by yearend 2027.

Despite the 2027 annual production estimate remaining unchanged at between 100,000 and 200,000 units, Citi remains optimistic about potential product launches in the near future.

Three key suppliers are highlighted: Hengli Hydraulic, Shuanghuan Drive, and Leader Drive. Hengli Hydraulic is expected to see orders from the U.S. customer expand beyond planetary roller screws to include linear guides and electric drives. The bank anticipates that humanoid components could represent 1% of Hengli's revenue in 2026, growing to 8% in 2027.

Shuanghuan Drive, already collaborating with the U.S. customer on electric vehicles, may supply high-torque reducers for waist or hip joints. Leader Drive's share in the leading U.S. robot maker remains uncertain; however, the bank notes ample order opportunities from Chinese humanoid firms and U.S. players like Figure AI and Apptronik.