Apptronik Lands $403M Backing from Mercedes, Google, and More

Texas-based robotics startup Apptronik has closed its Series A funding round at $403 million, including a recently secured $53 million on top of the $350 million previously announced. The round drew support from Mercedes-Benz, Japan Post Capital, ARK Invest, RyderVentures, and Google, signaling growing confidence in Apptronik’s real-world robot deployment strategy.

The funding will speed up the production and rollout of Apollo, Apptronik’s AI-powered humanoid robot. Apollo is already being tested in Mercedes-Benz factories in Germany and Hungary. The automaker uses Apollo to move components, assist with assembly, and conduct quality checks.

“Our work with Apptronik has given us a front-row seat to the incredible pace of progress in humanoid robotics and AI,” said Jörg Burzer, Mercedes-Benz board member for production. “We are proud to support Apptronik as they pioneer new ways to bring intelligent, adaptable robots onto the factory floor—helping us set new benchmarks for efficiency, safety, and collaboration between people and machines.”

Apollo, which stands 5-foot-8 and weighs 160 pounds, is designed for real-world use. It focuses first on logistics and manufacturing. The robot can carry up to 55 pounds and runs for four hours per battery pack. Over time, it’s expected to expand into other areas like retail, healthcare, and disaster response.

The investment also strengthens Apptronik’s recent partnerships, including collaborations with Google DeepMind, NVIDIA, and Jabil. The company has been working with Jabil to build Apollo robots and integrate them into Jabil’s own manufacturing operations.

“We’re building a future where humanoid robots are not just tools but trusted collaborators working seamlessly alongside people,” said Jeff Cardenas, Apptronik’s co-founder and CEO. “This investment is far more than capital—it’s the foundation for strategic relationships that will accelerate Apollo’s path to scaled production.”