Linamar Expands Into Collaborative Robots and Humanoid Manufacturing

Canada-based Linamar Corp. is expanding beyond its traditional manufacturing activities by developing collaborative robots internally and progressing toward full humanoid robot assembly. The initiative reflects the company's broader strategy of leveraging its engineering expertise, advanced manufacturing capabilities, and product development strengths to enter emerging technology markets. By combining automation hardware development with artificial intelligence collaboration, Linamar aims to establish a stronger presence in the rapidly evolving robotics sector while creating new growth opportunities outside its established business segments.

The company intends to deploy 50 collaborative robots, commonly known as cobots, across its own operations during 2026. This internal rollout will allow Linamar to refine performance, validate reliability, and optimize functionality before introducing the technology to external customers. Commercial sales of the cobots are currently planned for 2027, providing the company with a structured pathway from development and testing to market commercialization.

During the company's first-quarter 2026 earnings discussion held in early May, CEO and President Jim Jarrell highlighted the changing perception of Linamar within the industry. He noted that the organization is increasingly being recognized as an advanced manufacturing and product development company. Jarrell also disclosed that Linamar has signed a letter of intent to serve as the contract manufacturer for collaborative robots in North America, reinforcing its growing role within the robotics value chain.

In addition to collaborative robot production, the company is working with two separate partners on humanoid robot development. These partnerships focus on building next-generation robotic systems while leveraging Linamar's expertise in manufacturing complex components and assemblies. The company is simultaneously collaborating with software firms that are developing artificial intelligence technologies intended to serve as the operational intelligence and decision-making systems for future humanoid robots.

According to information published by the company, Linamar manufactures automation systems, actuators, and sophisticated electromechanical assemblies used in humanoid robots, collaborative robots, and advanced automation platforms. This existing foundation in automation technologies provides the company with a strategic advantage as it expands its involvement in robotics manufacturing and positions itself for future opportunities in industrial and commercial automation markets.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Linamar's strategy for collaborative and humanoid robots?
Linamar is expanding its business by developing collaborative robots internally and advancing toward full humanoid robot manufacturing. The company plans to deploy 50 cobots within its own operations during 2026 to refine the technology before launching commercial sales in 2027. Alongside cobot production, Linamar is partnering with multiple companies on humanoid robot development and working with software providers on artificial intelligence solutions. This approach allows the company to combine manufacturing expertise, automation technologies, and AI capabilities to support future growth in robotics markets.

When will Linamar begin selling collaborative robots commercially?
Linamar currently plans to begin commercial sales of its collaborative robots in 2027. Before entering the market, the company intends to deploy 50 units internally during 2026 to test and improve performance under real operating conditions. This phased strategy enables Linamar to validate the technology, gather operational insights, and enhance product reliability. The company believes this internal deployment process will help ensure its cobots meet customer expectations and support long-term growth opportunities in the automation and robotics industries.