Schaeffler Expands Humanoid Robotics Strategy with Hexagon Robotics Partnership Focused on Industrial Deployment and Actuator Innovation

(from left to right) Arnaud Robert, President of Hexagon Robotics, and Dr. Jochen Schröder, Chief Operating Officer at Schaeffler AG, ratified the technology partnership at Hannover Messe. (Image: Schaeffler)

(IN BRIEF) Schaeffler has partnered with Hexagon Robotics to develop key components for humanoid robots and integrate these systems into its global production network. The collaboration focuses on high-precision rotary actuators based on Schaeffler’s award-winning platform, combining advanced motors, electronics, and gearing technologies. Schaeffler plans to deploy at least 1,000 humanoid robots over the next seven years to enhance automation and efficiency in manufacturing. The partnership combines Schaeffler’s engineering expertise with Hexagon Robotics’ strengths in physical AI and sensor technologies, supporting the broader adoption of humanoid robotics in industrial environments.

(PRESS RELEASE) HERZOGENAURACH / ZURICH, 22-Apr-2026 — /EuropaWire/ — Schaeffler AG has formed a strategic alliance with Hexagon Robotics to advance the development and deployment of humanoid robotics technologies. The collaboration focuses on both the engineering of critical robotic components and the large-scale integration of humanoid systems into industrial production environments.

At the center of the partnership is the development and supply of high-precision rotary actuators based on Schaeffler’s actuator platform, recognized with the Hermes Award at Hannover Messe. These components combine advanced electric motors, integrated electronics, and precision gearing technologies, forming the backbone of motion systems used in humanoid robots.

In addition to component development, Schaeffler plans to introduce humanoid robots from Hexagon Robotics into its global manufacturing network. Over the next seven years, the company aims to deploy at least 1,000 AEON humanoid robots across its facilities, gradually increasing automation levels, enhancing production efficiency, and scaling the use of robotics in industrial operations.

The partnership reflects a broader strategy to bring together hardware innovation and real-world application. Schaeffler contributes its long-standing expertise in power transmission, while Hexagon Robotics brings capabilities in sensor fusion, spatial intelligence, and physical AI, enabling humanoid robots to operate effectively in complex production environments.

Schaeffler’s technology portfolio for humanoid robotics extends beyond actuators, encompassing bearings, motors, sensors, and energy management systems. Within this collaboration, the focus is on actuators used in key joints such as shoulders and elbows, where precision and performance are critical.

The actuator solutions incorporate different gearing technologies depending on application needs. Strain wave systems offer high precision, minimal backlash, and favorable weight-to-torque ratios, making them suitable for tasks requiring fine control. Planetary gear actuators, on the other hand, provide strong thermal stability, efficient torque transmission, and the ability to handle dynamic loads, supporting more demanding industrial applications.

By combining these complementary technologies, the partnership aims to establish a flexible and scalable foundation for humanoid robotics. The initiative also highlights the growing role of physical AI and advanced automation in manufacturing, as companies increasingly look to integrate intelligent robotic systems into their operations.

Through this agreement, Schaeffler continues to expand its footprint in the global humanoid robotics ecosystem, aligning technological development with practical industrial deployment.

Forward-looking statements and projections
Certain statements in this press release are forward-looking statements. By their nature, forward-looking statements involve a number of risks, uncertainties and assumptions that could cause actual results or events to differ materially from those expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements. These risks, uncertainties and assumptions could adversely affect the outcome and financial consequences of the plans and events described herein. No one undertakes any obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. You should not place any undue reliance on forward-looking statements which speak only as of the date of this press release. Statements contained in this press release regarding past trends or events should not be taken as representation that such trends or events will continue in the future. The cautionary statements set out above should be considered in connection with any subsequent written or oral forward-looking statements that Schaeffler, or persons acting on its behalf, may issue.

Schaeffler Group – We pioneer motion: The Schaeffler Group has been driving forward groundbreaking inventions and developments in the field of motion technology for 80 years. With innovative technologies, products, and services for electric mobility, CO₂-efficient drives, chassis solutions and renewable energies, the company is a reliable partner for making motion more efficient, intelligent, and sustainable – over the entire life cycle. Schaeffler describes its comprehensive range of products and services by means of eight product families: From bearing solutions and all types of linear guidance systems through to repair and monitoring services. Schaeffler is with around 110,000 employees and more than 250 locations in 55 countries, one of the world’s largest family-owned companies and one of Germany’s most innovative companies.

Media contact:

Dr. Axel Lüdeke
Head of Group Communications & Public Affairs Schaeffler Group
Tel.: +49 9132 82 8901
E-mail: axel.luedeke@schaeffler.com

Daniel Pokorny
Head of Communications Technology, Operations & Digitalization
Tel.: +49 9132 82-88708
E-mail: Daniel.pokorny@schaeffler.com

Heiko Eber
Head of Investor Relations
Tel.: +49 9132 82-88125
e-mail: heiko.eber@schaeffler

SOURCE: Schaeffler AG