BMW deploys humanoid robots in German factories as European manufacturers take notice

Europe’s factory floors have welcomed a groundbreaking new colleague. BMW Group has introduced humanoid robots into manufacturing for the very first time in Germany, kickstarting an innovative pilot project at its Leipzig plant featuring AEON — a wheeled humanoid robot developed by Hexagon Robotics.

This marks the first automotive deployment of AEON worldwide and signals a pivotal moment for European industry: physical AI-powered robotics is no longer confined to North America or East Asia.

The official announcement on March 9, 2026 draws upon solid insights from an earlier trial in the United States. In 2025, BMW conducted a ten-month pilot at its Spartanburg, South Carolina plant utilizing the Figure 02 humanoid robot from Figure AI. During this period, the robot assisted in producing over 30,000 BMW X3 models, operating extended 10-hour shifts and handling more than 90,000 components in total.

Leipzig now stands as the direct successor to these valuable lessons, pushing forward the integration of advanced robotics into European automotive manufacturing.