EDITORIAL ROUNDUP

Hyundai to Use AI Robots on Production Lines

At the CES 2026 technology exhibition in Las Vegas earlier this month, Hyundai Motor Group
(HMG) and its collaboration partner Boston Dynamics, announced plans to integrate cutting-
edge AI robotics across all HMG manufacturing sites worldwide. Many companies develop
robots, but HMG says the key differentiator of its AI robotics lies in the ability to apply and
validate these technologies at scale.

Carrying heavy objects that were once the duties of humans is just one example of the
technology’s promise and potential. Before deployment, robots will first undergo learning
and training at the Robot Metaplant Application Center (RMAC), set to open this year at the
‘HMG Megaplant America’ in Georgia. Robots trained at RMAC will start sequencing tasks by
2028, with more complex operations like assembly beginning by 2030.
More information www.hyundaimotorgroup.com

WIKA Opens New Subsidiary in Morocco

Industrial measurement instrument specialist WIKA has expanded its footprint in north Africa with a new subsidiary in Casablanca, Morocco. The move is part of WIKA’s strategy to operate with agility worldwide through local facilities. By being closer to customers and partners on site, the company aims to process orders even more efficiently and deliver even higher level of service.

“The opening of the subsidiary in Morocco marks an important milestone in our regional growth strategy,” says Marcel Frei, senior vice president forsouth Europe. “Our local presence enables us to offer customers even more flexible, personalised support and to strengthen collaboration with regional partners. All of this increases our visibility in north Africa and helps us unlock new market potential.”

More information www.wika.com

Plans For UK’s First Electric Air Taxi Network

Vertical Aerospace has set out plans with Skyports Infrastructure and Bristow Group to launch the UK’s first electric air-taxi routes between Canary Wharf and major transport hubs such as Heathrow, Gatwick, Cambridge and Oxford. The new routes, planned to launch in 2029,would cut multi-hour road journeys to minutes by air, targeting Canary Wharf to Heathrow in just 12 minutes

The announcement was made as Vertical Aerospace unveiled Valo, a piloted, four-passenger electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft that will fly up to 100 miles at up to 150 mph. Valowill produce zero operating emissions and carry certification with the UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) and the European Aviation Safety Authority (EASA). Vertical has circa 1500 pre-orders of Valo and targets producing 225+ aircraft annually by Q4 2030.

More information www.vertical-aerospace.com

Collaboration Will Spur Next-Generation UAVs

GKN Aerospace is entering a new strategic teaming agreement with autonomous platform provider Anduril Industries UK that will accelerate the development of advanced uncrewed aerial vehicles (UAV) and rotorcraft technologies for UK defence programmes. The partnership will target key UK contracts expected in early 2026, delivering modern capability while reinforcing the UK’s sovereign industrial base.

The signing ceremony took place last month at GKN Aerospace’s Cowes facility, where much of the work will be delivered following the company’s recent £10m investment in the site. Isle of Wight West MP Richard Quigley attended the event to emphasise the importance of such partnerships for the UK’s manufacturing sector and support the potential for more than 100 new jobs on the Island through future work packages.

More information www.gknaerospace.com

Pre-Met MD recognised for industry contribution

Metal pressings specialist Pre-Met reports that its managing directorJames Leng has been recognised as one of Britain’s Great 100 – a national honour celebrating leaders who shape the future of UK manufacturing and engineering. Selected by the Made in Group, the Great 100 highlights individuals who are backing Britain through outstanding leadership, advocacy and commitment to strengthening the UK industrial landscape. Says Leng: “This recognition reflects the dedication of the entire Pre-Met team and our shared commitment to backing British innovation, skills and industrial strength.”

More information www.metalpressingsandstampings.co.uk