AGIBOT, a Shanghai-based robotics start-up co-founded by former Huawei Technologies "Genius Youth" recruits, is targeting production of up to 5,000 robots this year, according to a senior executive, matching Elon Musk's Optimus plans, reports Hong Kong's South China Morning Post.

The company, also known as Zhiyuan Robotics, plans to deliver between 3,000 and 5,000 robots this year, up from 1,000 units last year, according to Yao Maoqing, a partner at Agibot and president of the company's embodied intelligence unit.

The production surge reflects the eagerness among Chinese robotics start-ups for expansion amid a domestic boom in the industry.

Industrial robot output in China rose 27 per cent year on year to 91,088 units in January and February, while service robot output increased 36 per cent to 1.5 million units, according to government data.