en.Wedoany.com Reported - On July 2, 2026, SKF signed an agreement with Leaderdrive, a global manufacturer of precision components for robots, to establish a joint venture in China focused on high-precision transmission components for robot joints. SKF will hold a 60% stake in the joint venture.

Through this investment, SKF takes a significant step in the robotics industry, with a strategic focus on the application of humanoid robots empowered by embodied intelligence technology in industrial scenarios. This move aligns with the Group's strategic focus on high-growth areas.

The joint venture will be dedicated to the research, development, and supply of high-precision transmission components for robot joints, meeting the reliability requirements for continuous operation of humanoid robots in industrial settings. Leaderdrive brings application expertise in automation and humanoid robotics, while SKF offers significant advantages in bearing technology, large-scale manufacturing, and global supply chain capabilities. The complementary strengths of both parties will effectively shorten product time-to-market and prepare for the mass production of the embodied intelligent robot market.

Wang Hui, President of SKF China and Northeast Asia, stated that this joint venture project aligns with SKF's strategy to drive profitable growth and will further strengthen its position in specific high-growth industrial sectors. He noted that by focusing on the track of humanoid robot applications in industrial scenarios, this collaboration provides the company with the agility needed to respond to rapid market iterations, while leveraging the core technologies of both parties to effectively support the development of the entire industry.

Zuo Yuyu, Chairman and Executive Director of Leaderdrive, stated that with the large-scale development of the embodied intelligent robot industry, the stable delivery of reliable core transmission components has become a key differentiating competitive advantage. Based on the shared industrial expertise of both parties, this will help drive the technological iteration of humanoid robots and create long-term value in this market.

The joint venture will be headquartered in China, positioned close to the supply chain and customer base to achieve an agile operational model. In addition to serving China, the world's largest and fastest-growing humanoid robot market, the joint venture will leverage SKF's global sales network to expand into international markets including Europe, Japan, and the United States. The joint venture is expected to commence operations by the end of 2026.