TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Hiwin Technologies said that its logistics robots are expected to enter small-scale production early next year, followed by testing with US logistics companies after software integration.
At an investors’ conference on Tuesday, Company Chair Cho Wen-heng (卓文恒) said that over the next three years, agricultural and warehouse robots are expected to see significant development. He noted that testing of Hiwin’s logistics robots will be completed before 2027, with shipments to begin thereafter, per CNA.
Cho highlighted the humanoid robot sector should first focus on developing key components. Humanoid robots equipped with AI technology will initially be used on factory production lines before becoming more widely adopted in households and everyday life.
Cho added the company plans to expand its robotics revenue, including developing agricultural robots for the European market and transport robots for Taiwan’s medical sector. He estimated sales of robots will account for more than 10% of the company’s total revenue next year.
Since July, the company has partnered with US robotics firm Dexterity to develop an AI-powered industrial robotic arm named “Mech.” The robot is designed for use in warehouses, logistics, retail, and e-commerce environments, and features a compact base capable of moving in all directions, rotating, and climbing ramps.
To further advance the key components used in humanoid robots, Hiwin has collaborated with its subsidiary, Hiwin Mikrosystem, to develop joint modules, reducers, crossed roller bearings, and motors.
Hiwin has also developed a new type of roller screw that can be used in humanoid robots, electric cylinders, and industrial machinery. Cho said the product is lighter and more efficient than conventional roller screws, though its price could be up to ten times higher. To address this, Hiwin plans to mass-produce the screws to reduce manufacturing costs.
Cho expects the US government’s reindustrialization policies to boost the company’s machinery and robotics revenue, noting that orders from Southeast Asia are on the rise. Hiwin’s Japanese subsidiary has also seen increased orders following the recent depreciation of the yen.
The company posted NT$5.99 billion (US$193.3 million) in third-quarter revenue, with an after-tax profit of NT$446 million. Revenue for the first three quarters totaled NT$17.76 billion, with an after-tax profit of NT$1.06 billion. Revenue between May and October dropped compared with last year due to the New Taiwan dollar exchange rate.
