Hexagon strengthens AI and robotics capabilities with new autonomous systems division

Hexagon has unveiled a dedicated Robotics division as part of its strategic push into autonomous robotics solutions. Leveraging its expertise in AI, spatial intelligence, and precision measurement technologies, the company aims to position itself at the forefront of next-generation autonomy, addressing growing demand across industries such as manufacturing, logistics, automotive, energy, and aviation.

With the robotics sector experiencing rapid technological advancements, Hexagon’s decision to establish a dedicated division aligns with broader industry trends emphasizing automation and AI-driven efficiency. Arnaud Robert, a veteran in AI and business transformation, has been appointed as President of the new division, where he will oversee research and development, commercial operations, and strategic partnerships.

Why Is Hexagon Expanding Into Autonomous Robotics?

Automation has become an imperative across industries facing labor shortages and efficiency challenges. Robotics, once confined to industrial assembly lines, is now evolving into intelligent, autonomous systems capable of performing complex tasks with minimal human intervention. Advances in AI, reinforcement learning, and digital twins have enabled robots to operate more independently, navigate dynamic environments, and adapt to real-time changes.

Hexagon, already a leader in measurement technology and spatial intelligence, is uniquely positioned to capitalize on these advancements. By integrating its expertise in precision measurement, simulation, and AI, the company aims to accelerate the development of autonomous robotics solutions that enhance productivity and adaptability across multiple industries.

According to Norbert Hanke, Hexagon’s interim President and CEO, robotics has been a foundational pillar of the company’s innovation strategy. Over the years, Hexagon has integrated robotics into various applications, from total stations and drones in construction to laser trackers for manufacturing and autonomous solutions for mining and agriculture. Establishing a dedicated Robotics division, he noted, allows Hexagon to deepen its investments in automation and develop solutions tailored to industry-specific needs.

What Will Hexagon’s Robotics Division Focus On?

Hexagon’s new Robotics division will focus on developing AI-driven robotic systems designed for manufacturing, automotive production, logistics, and industrial automation. These industries are undergoing a transformation driven by AI, where robotics is no longer a supporting function but a core operational component.

The demand for autonomous robotics solutions is increasing as industries seek greater precision, efficiency, and scalability. In logistics and warehousing, for instance, robotic automation is reshaping inventory management, order fulfillment, and last-mile delivery. Similarly, in automotive manufacturing, AI-powered robotics is enhancing quality control, predictive maintenance, and assembly line automation.

As part of its expansion, Hexagon is expected to leverage its digital twin technology—a simulation-driven approach that creates virtual models of real-world environments to enhance robotic decision-making. By combining digital twins with AI-powered autonomy, Hexagon’s robotics solutions will enable robots to learn, interact with their surroundings, and operate with greater precision and efficiency.

Who Is Leading Hexagon’s Robotics Expansion?

To spearhead this initiative, Hexagon has appointed Arnaud Robert as President of its Robotics division. Robert, a seasoned executive with a PhD in computer science from the Swiss Institute of Technology Lausanne (EPFL), brings more than 25 years of experience in AI and business transformation. Throughout his career, he has successfully scaled businesses, launched global AI-driven products, and led digital transformations across multiple industries.

Robert’s expertise in autonomous systems, AI, and robotics makes him a strategic choice for Hexagon’s robotics expansion. He holds over a dozen patents and has received multiple industry awards for his contributions to AI-driven automation and digital transformation.

Robert emphasized that Hexagon’s leadership in measurement technology and positioning solutions would be a key differentiator in the competitive robotics market. The Robotics division, he noted, will focus on integrating the latest advancements in robotics and AI to redefine automation, intelligence, and efficiency across industries.

How Does Hexagon’s Robotics Strategy Impact Investors?

Hexagon AB’s strategic shift into autonomous robotics solutions has drawn significant attention from investors. Market analysts are closely watching how the new Robotics division will influence Hexagon’s financial performance and competitive positioning in the growing automation sector.

As of March 28, 2025, Hexagon AB’s Class B shares (HEXA-B.ST) closed at SEK 109.10, marking a 20.79% recovery from its 52-week low of SEK 90.32 in November 2024. The stock reached a 52-week high of SEK 130.55 on February 18, 2025, reflecting market confidence in Hexagon’s long-term growth prospects.

Currently, the analyst consensus on Hexagon is a “Hold” rating. The company’s Price-to-Earnings (P/E) ratio stands at 26.72, suggesting that investors are pricing in strong future earnings growth. Additionally, Hexagon maintains a dividend yield of 1.39%, with its next ex-dividend date scheduled for May 6, 2025.

While the Robotics division is expected to drive future revenue streams, investors should consider potential market risks, including technological adoption rates, competition from other AI-driven automation firms, and broader economic factors affecting industrial automation demand. Given Hexagon’s solid financial position, market capitalization of approximately SEK 284.10 billion, and earnings per share (EPS) of 4.10 SEK, the company remains well-positioned to execute its robotics strategy.

For existing investors, maintaining a “Hold” position may be the most prudent approach, allowing them to assess how Hexagon’s robotics expansion unfolds. Prospective investors should evaluate the company’s long-term automation strategy and its potential to capture market share in the AI-powered robotics industry.

What’s Next for Hexagon’s Robotics Division?

As the global automation market continues to expand, Hexagon’s investment in AI-powered robotics underscores a broader industry trend toward self-learning, intelligent systems that operate with minimal human intervention. The company’s integration of AI, digital twins, and spatial intelligence provides a strong foundation for developing scalable, next-generation robotics solutions.

Under Arnaud Robert’s leadership, Hexagon’s Robotics division will focus on developing highly capable, AI-driven robotic systems tailored to the unique needs of industrial sectors. The company’s expertise in precision measurement and autonomous navigation positions it as a key player in shaping the future of industrial automation, logistics, and manufacturing.

As automation continues to evolve, Hexagon’s ability to innovate, adapt, and lead in AI-powered autonomy will determine its success in this competitive and fast-growing sector. With demand for autonomous robotics solutions accelerating across multiple industries, Hexagon’s Robotics division represents a strategic move toward defining the next era of intelligent automation.