Hexagon Expands Digital Reality Solutions with Acquisition of HARD-LINE for Mine Automation

Hexagon Expands Digital Reality Solutions with Acquisition of HARD-LINE for Mine Automation

(IN BRIEF) Hexagon, a global leader in digital reality solutions, has acquired HARD-LINE, a fast-growing company specializing in mine automation and remote-control technology. HARD-LINE’s expertise lies in remote control solutions that enable the tele-remote operation of heavy machinery from secure control stations on the surface or underground. The acquisition will enhance Hexagon’s life-of-mine technology stack and complement its existing product offerings in the mining sector. The addition of HARD-LINE’s scalable technologies will improve remote-controlled mining operations and contribute to the advancement of autonomous technology in the industry. HARD-LINE, headquartered in Sudbury, Canada, will operate as part of Hexagon’s Mining division.

(PRESS RELEASE) STOCKHOLM, 12-Jul-2023 — /EuropaWire/ — Hexagon (STO: HEXA-B), a global leader in digital reality solutions, combining sensor, software and autonomous technologies, announced today its acquisition of HARD-LINE, a rapidly growing global leader specializing in mine automation, remote-control technology, and mine production optimization.

HARD-LINE’s expertise lies in delivering remote control solutions and associated network infrastructure, enabling secure tele-remote operation of heavy machinery from control stations located on the surface or underground, regardless of distance. Leveraging scalable technologies, HARD-LINE enhances remote-controlled mining operations through electronic and hydraulic by-wire technologies, paving the way for full autonomy within mining environments.

This strategic acquisition will enrich Hexagon’s life-of-mine technology stack and complement its latest product offerings, including HxGN Underground Mining, HxGN Autonomous Mining, and the award-winning HxGN MineProtect platform. These product portfolios embody a comprehensive life-of-mine vision, incorporating features such as autonomous vehicle traffic management, enhanced fleet situational awareness, drill automation, and advanced safety measures for operators, pedestrians, and equipment in challenging mining environments. Like Hexagon, HARD-LINE shares a commitment to an interoperable, OEM-independent system for mining automation, promoting safety, productivity, and the advancement of autonomous technology throughout the mining industry.

“As mines venture deeper underground in search of vital minerals and metals, the importance of removing humans from hazardous operating conditions becomes increasingly clear. Remote control is a key enabler of this and serves as a stepping-stone towards full autonomy,” said Paolo Guglielmini, President and CEO, Hexagon. “We’re excited to welcome HARD-LINE, a company that shares our vision of a future that’s safer, sustainable, and increasingly autonomous, into the Hexagon family.”

Founded in 1996 and headquartered in Sudbury, Canada, HARD-LINE boasts a talented workforce of approximately 100 employees serving customers in both underground and surface mining markets. The company will operate as part of Hexagon’s Mining division. The acquisition is not expected to have a significant impact on Hexagon’s earnings.

Hexagon’s strategic acquisition of HARD-LINE underscores its dedication to advancing digital reality solutions in the mining industry, empowering customers with cutting-edge technologies that enhance productivity, safety, and efficiency across the entire mining lifecycle.

For further information, please contact:
Tom Hull, Head of Investor Relations, Hexagon AB, +44 7442 678 437, ir@hexagon.com
Madlen Nicolaus, Chief Marketing Officer, Hexagon AB, +44 207 068 6575, media@hexagon.com

Hexagon is the global leader in digital reality solutions, combining sensor, software and autonomous technologies. We are putting data to work to boost efficiency, productivity, quality and safety across industrial, manufacturing, infrastructure, public sector, and mobility applications.

Our technologies are shaping production and people related ecosystems to become increasingly connected and autonomous – ensuring a scalable, sustainable future.

Hexagon (Nasdaq Stockholm: HEXA B) has approximately 24,000 employees in 50 countries and net sales of approximately 5.2bn EUR. Learn more at hexagon.com and follow us @HexagonAB.

SOURCE: Hexagon AB