China Café South; Robots uncovered, what’s real, what’s hype in Europe and China

Join us on May 18 in Eindhoven for an engaging China Café where we take a closer look at the world of robotics—beyond the hype. Robots often appear more intelligent than they really are, but what can they actually do today, and where are they already making a real impact? In this accessible and thought-provoking session, we’ll explore how robotics is developing differently in Europe and China. While Europe often emphasizes regulation, ethics, and precision, China is moving at remarkable speed, driven by large-scale investment and rapid real-world deployment—from factories to everyday services. The rapid progress of humanoid robots in China was recently highlighted by their participation in—and even winning of—a marathon, illustrating how quickly this technology is moving from experimentation into real-world capability By comparing these approaches, we’ll uncover not just technological differences, but also the cultural and economic forces shaping innovation.

During the session, Jos Elfring, assistant professor at Eindhoven University of Technology will be interviewed about his insights and experience in this field, offering an expert perspective on the opportunities and challenges of robotics today. Expect a lively, balanced conversation that separates fact from fiction and invites you to see robotics from a fresh perspective.

After the interview we have ample opportunity for networking over drinks and snacks, offered by VNC free of charge. Join us! 

Programm:

17.00 – 17.30 walkin and networking

17.30 – 18.30 interview

18.30 – 19.00 networking

Language is English

About the speakers:

Jos Elfring

Jos Elfring earned his PhD in Robotics in 2014 from the Department of Mechanical Engineering at Eindhoven University of Technology. Over the following decade, he worked at TNO, Smart Robotics, TomTom, and VDL in roles ranging from researcher to technical lead and architect. A consistent theme throughout his career has been the development of world models that enable autonomous robots to perceive, understand, and operate more effectively in complex environments. In 2024, he transitioned to academia, joining the Robotics section at Eindhoven University of Technology as an assistant professor.

This China Cafe has been made possible by BOM (Brabantse Ontwikkelings Maaatschappij)

Please register here:
Tickets are transferable but non refundable.