At the 10th Future Business Summit of the German Engineering Federation (VDMA) on 14 and 15 April 2026 at the Institute of Robotics and Mechatronics in Oberpfaffenhofen, experts from research and industry discussed the future of humanoid robotics.
For two days, the focus was on the role that humanoid robots will play in the future of mechanical and plant engineering and how Europe can secure its competitiveness in this dynamic field of technology.
The first day of the event was dedicated in particular to the Robotics Institute Germany (RIG) and its role in networking and strengthening robotics research in Germany. The second day focussed on the "Humanoid Robotics 2040" study developed jointly with the VDMA and VDMA Robotics + Automation, the results of which were presented and discussed.
Humanoid robotics is considered a key technology, as it opens up new fields of application through advances in artificial intelligence and significantly expands the use of machines in complex and previously inaccessible environments. The aim of the summit was therefore to categorise technological developments, highlight strategic perspectives and discuss specific recommendations for the industry.
The study emphasises that speed is a decisive factor in international competition and that issues relating to trust and security must be actively shaped – both technologically and in terms of regulation.
The head of the institute, Prof. Dr. Alin Albu-Schäffer, provided a central image of the current state of development: humanoid robotics is "at kilometre 5 of a marathon" – an indication that, despite great progress, there is still a long way to go.
The summit showed that Europe has great potential to play a leading role in humanoid robotics – provided that research, politics and industry work closely together and make consistent use of the current window of opportunity.
Kick-off to the 10th Future Business Summit: focus on "Humanoid robotics 2040"
Dr. Eric Maiser, Managing Director of VDMA Research and Innovation, opened the 10th Future Business Summit with an outlook on the future of humanoid robotics. In his keynote speech, he highlighted key developments, challenges and innovation potential on the road to humanoid robot systems in 2040 and beyond.
Robotics Institute Germany in focus: Prof Dr Angela Schöllig presents vision and goals
In her presentation of the Robotics Institute Germany (RIG), Prof. Dr. Angela Schöllig (TUM) showed how the network brings together cutting-edge research in robotics and AI to develop forward-looking solutions and sustainably strengthen Germany as a location for innovation.
