Industry Briefing
A single destination for timely, editor-curated robotics news from around the world.
Bessemer Technology Secures Angel Funding for Motor Innovations in Robotics
Bessemer (Shanghai) Technology, founded by Assistant Professor Zhu Wenjun from Xi'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University, has successfully raised millions in angel funding from the Pudong AI Seed Fund. Established in 2025 with a registered capital of 2 million yuan, the company holds two patents and aims to optimize motor technology and establish mass production lines with the new funding. This funding is significant as it marks a shift in investment focus towards core components like joint motors, which have been underdeveloped in China. While many domestic motor technologies remain in the experimental phase, Bessemer is building a complete chain from electromagnetic simulation to standardized hardware, addressing the gap between laboratory innovations and industrial production. Looking ahead, Bessemer's product line includes the E series and S series motors, designed for humanoid robots and medical devices, which could disrupt the market by offering lighter, more efficient alternatives to traditional motors. No further timeline was disclosed at the time of publication for upcoming product launches or additional funding rounds.
Motor Technology Robotics Angel Investment High-Tech Startups
Leap Motor Introduces Fully Self-Developed Embodied Intelligent Robot at Technology Day
On September 16, Leap Motor announced the completion of its fully self-developed embodied intelligent robot during its 2026 Technology Day. The company has independently mastered all core components, including motors, controllers, batteries, perception algorithms, and computing platforms. This comprehensive self-research system allows Leap Motor to transfer its automotive technology chain into the robotics sector, achieving internal closed-loop for most core components. This development is significant as it positions Leap Motor to explore scalable applications that can generate commercial value, moving beyond mere laboratory prototypes or demonstrations. The overlap in technology stacks between automotive and robotics provides a logical foundation for this transition. Leap Motor's simultaneous release of various technologies, such as the MM-i multi-modal hybrid electric drive and the LEAP 5.0 new mobile space architecture, directly correlates with core robotic components, enhancing its manufacturing capabilities. Looking ahead, Leap Motor aims to leverage its extensive self-research and manufacturing capabilities to expand its high-level intelligent driving across all vehicle models. The company's focus on finding commercially viable scenarios for its robotics business is crucial, especially as it navigates the challenges of balancing resources across its automotive and robotics divisions. The success of its robotics initiative will depend on its ability to identify paying customers and viable applications in real-world settings.
Robotics Automotive Technology AI Manufacturing Embedded Systems
Motorola Solutions Finalizes $1.5 Billion Acquisition of D-Fend Solutions for Counter-Drone Technology
Motorola Solutions has successfully completed its acquisition of D-Fend Solutions for $1.5 billion, enhancing its public safety and security offerings with advanced counter-drone technology. This acquisition integrates D-Fend's RF cyber-takeover technology, which is designed to detect and mitigate unauthorized drones without disrupting nearby communications. The significance of this acquisition lies in its potential to improve airspace security for Motorola Solutions' customers globally. Greg Brown, chairman and CEO of Motorola Solutions, emphasized the importance of combining ground safety with air security, stating that D-Fend's technology complements their mission-critical ecosystem. The technology has already been deployed in over 30 countries at various critical locations. Looking ahead, Motorola Solutions plans to integrate D-Fend into its existing public safety ecosystem, enhancing situational awareness for front-line teams. Zohar Halachmi will continue as CEO of D-Fend Solutions while also taking on a senior vice president role at Motorola Solutions. No further timeline was disclosed at the time of publication.
Anti-drone technology C-UAS Drone News Drone News Feeds News safety and security
Jiangsu Leili Addresses Robot 'Fingertip Stiffness' with Innovative Micro Motor Solutions
Jiangsu Leili Electric Motor is tackling the critical issue of mechanical stiffness in humanoid robots, which affects their ability to balance flexibility and stability. Their subsidiary, MINDSYNC TECH, showcased a dexterous robotic hand capable of performing tasks such as calligraphy and operating precision instruments, demonstrating significant advancements in addressing stiffness. The dexterous hand requires multiple micro motors for human-like joint movements. Traditional iron-core motors are bulky and inefficient, while hollow cup motors offer higher power density and lighter weight, making them essential for high-end dexterous hands. Jiangsu Leili's subsidiary has developed a full range of hollow cup motors and achieved automated production, enhancing their capabilities in gearboxes and precision gear transmission. Currently, the price of a single dexterous hand ranges from 10,000 to 60,000 yuan. MINDSYNC TECH's General Manager, Wang Wenwei, noted that most humanoid robots in factories still use basic two-finger grippers, limiting their functionality. The industry anticipates that large-scale industrial applications of dexterous hands will take 1-2 years, aligning with the maturation of humanoid robot cost curves.
Robotics Micro Motors Dexterous Manipulation Industrial Automation
Motorola Solutions Makes $1.5 Billion Bet on Counter-Drone Technology
Motorola Solutions has announced its intention to acquire D-Fend Solutions, a counter-drone technology firm, for $1.5 billion, highlighting the increasing demand for airspace security. The definitive agreement was made public on June 1, reflecting a broader trend among governments to enhance their counter-unmanned aerial systems (UAS) capabilities. This acquisition underscores the growing recognition of the importance of counter-drone technology in safeguarding public safety, national security, and critical infrastructure. As drone usage continues to rise, the need for effective countermeasures has become paramount, prompting Motorola Solutions to invest significantly in this sector.
Anti-drone technology C-UAS Drone News Drone News Feeds drone security Drones in the News
Alva Industries to bring its frameless motor technology to the Robotics Summit
Alva Industries is set to showcase its innovative SlimTorq, recognized as one of the thinnest and lightest frameless motors available, at the upcoming Robotics Summit. This event will provide a platform for the company to highlight its cutting-edge motor technology, which is designed to enhance efficiency and performance in various robotic applications. The Robotics Summit, a key gathering for industry leaders and innovators, will take place in the near future, drawing attention from professionals eager to explore advancements in robotics. Alva's participation underscores its commitment to pushing the boundaries of motor design and functionality in the rapidly evolving robotics sector.
Actuators / Motors / Servos Collaborative Robots Events Exoskeletons Motion Control News
Hyundai Motor, Kia and NVIDIA Expand Strategic Partnership for Next-Generation Autonomous Driving Technology
NVIDIA has announced an expanded collaboration with Hyundai Motor Company and Kia Corporation to enhance the development of next-generation autonomous driving technologies. This partnership will leverage the NVIDIA DRIVE Hyperion™ platform, which is designed to support the creation of advanced autonomous vehicles. The announcement was made today, signaling a significant step forward in the automotive industry’s push towards fully autonomous driving solutions. This collaboration aims to combine NVIDIA's cutting-edge technology with Hyundai and Kia's automotive expertise to accelerate innovation in self-driving capabilities.
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