Gasgoo Munich- SKF is joining forces with precision component manufacturer Leaderdrive to establish a joint venture in China. Signed on July 2, the agreement centers on high-precision transmission components for robotic joints, with operations expected to launch by the end of 2026.
Image Source: SKF
SKF will hold a 60% stake in the venture. The company described the move as a significant step into the robotics sector, specifically targeting industrial applications of humanoid robots powered by embodied intelligence. It aligns with SKF's broader strategy of doubling down on high-growth markets.
Specifically, the joint venture will handle the R&D and supply of high-precision transmission components for robotic joints, addressing the reliability demands of continuous industrial operation. Leaderdrive brings application know-how in automation and humanoid robotics, while SKF contributes its expertise in bearing technology, large-scale manufacturing, and global supply chains. By combining these strengths, the partners aim to shorten time-to-market and prepare for the mass production of embodied intelligence robots.
Headquartered in China, the joint venture will locate near supply chains and customer bases to enable an agile operational model. While serving China — the world's largest and fastest-growing market for humanoid robots — the company will also leverage SKF's global sales network to expand internationally, targeting markets in Europe, Japan, and the United States.
