3. What highlights can visitors expect at XPONENTIAL Europe 2025?
Malte Seifert: Visitors to XPONENTIAL Europe 2025 can look forward to an incredibly diverse and inspiring experience. The event in Düsseldorf revolves around the latest developments in autonomous mobility and robotics.
A particularly exciting feature will be the live demonstrations, allowing attendees to experience technological innovations firsthand. For example, MIRA will showcase how teleoperated shuttles will revolutionize public transport, while Rheinbahn will demonstrate how autonomous systems can make urban traffic safer and more efficient. Quantum Systems will provide spectacular drone demonstrations that are sure to impress.
Another core element of the event is the XPONENTIAL Europe Conference, where international experts will discuss the latest advancements and challenges in the industry. The daily keynotes will be a highlight, featuring high-profile speakers from research, industry and politics, setting the stage for further discussions and sessions.
Additionally, the European Drone Forum will kick off one day before the exhibition begins, focusing on drone integration into European airspace and applications in areas such as disaster relief and logistics. It's an excellent opportunity to learn from leading experts in the drone economy and gain practical insights.
And of course, there will be plenty of innovations to explore. At the Innovation Theater, companies like ESA and the Fraunhofer Institute will present their latest developments. Meanwhile, the XPO+ Launcher offers a platform for young, visionary start-ups to present their ideas and connect with investors.
A special highlight and foundation for high-tech demonstrations: Vodafone, the official connectivity partner of XPONENTIAL Europe, will set up a private 5G campus network in Hall 1. This state-of-the-art infrastructure will be experienced on the exhibition grounds for the first time, enabling exhibitors to showcase their technologies under real-world conditions—live, interactive and with minimal latency.
4. These are indeed exciting topics that concern us all. In your opinion, what role do autonomous systems and robotics play in today's industry, and how will XPONENTIAL Europe 2025 help advance these technologies?
Malte Seifert: Autonomous systems and robotics have become indispensable in many industries today. They enhance efficiency, increase safety and enable entirely new business models. XPONENTIAL Europe 2025 will play a key role in advancing these technologies by acting as a catalyst for innovation and a platform for knowledge exchange. By bringing together professionals from various sectors—from aviation and automotive to logistics—the trade fair will contribute to the faster and more efficient market integration of autonomous systems and robotics.
5. What is the current status of autonomous mobility in Germany? What support do you expect from policymakers?
Malte Seifert: Germany is a leader in many areas of autonomous mobility, particularly in the automotive and logistics sectors. However, challenges remain, especially concerning legal frameworks and integrating these innovative systems into existing infrastructure. I hope for more support from policymakers in establishing clear and uniform regulations, as well as investments in the expansion of necessary infrastructure, so that autonomous technologies can be implemented in the market more quickly, efficiently and under clear conditions.
6. What future trends and innovations do you expect in the field of autonomous systems and robotics over the next five years?
Malte Seifert: Over the next five years, I anticipate significant progress in the integration of artificial intelligence into autonomous systems, greatly improving their adaptability and decision-making capabilities. Additionally, the interconnectivity of various autonomous systems will increase, creating new synergies and applications. Another trend will be the growing use of autonomous systems in agriculture and urban areas, where they will help address issues such as labor shortages and traffic congestion.
Thank you for the interview.