Inteligencia Artificial (IA)
BMW will implement humanoid robots in European factories to optimize production.
Paloma Firgaira
2026-03-05
5 min read
The arrival of humanoid robots in factories is about to become a daily reality, according to an engineer from Boston Dynamics. Unlike traditional industrial arms, these robots stand out for their ability to adapt to multiple tasks thanks to artificial intelligence, allowing them to move around the plant, manipulate conventional tools, and take on various functions, thereby increasing flexibility and efficiency in production.
In this context, BMW has announced the start of its first European project with humanoid robots, integrating what it calls "Physical AI": a fusion of artificial intelligence and advanced production systems. The Leipzig plant in Germany will be the pioneer in testing this technology, aiming to incorporate humanoid robots into existing assembly lines, especially in the assembly of high-voltage batteries and other key components of its vehicles.
For this project, BMW is collaborating with Hexagon Robotics, based in Zurich, which presented its humanoid robot AEON in June 2025, designed with human-like proportions. After initial lab tests and technical evaluations, a first test was conducted in the Leipzig factory in December 2025. A new test is scheduled for April 2026, and if the results are positive, the pilot will officially launch in the summer.
BMW's previous experience with humanoid robots at its Spartanburg plant in the United States, where the Figure 02 model participated for ten months in the production of over 30,000 units of the BMW X3, has been crucial. There, the robot took on complex tasks such as handling and positioning metal parts for welding, laying the groundwork for its deployment in Europe.
(Source: 20minutos.es)