XPONENTIAL Europe 2025: autonomous technologies

From February 18 to 20, 2025, Messe Düsseldorf will host XPONENTIAL Europe for the first time. As a global meeting point for uncrewed systems, mobility and robotics, it stands at the forefront of autonomous technologies. We spoke with Malte Seifert, Director Metals & Autonomous Technologies, about the background, challenges and opportunities of this event.

Malte Seifert: XPONENTIAL Europe is a trade fair focusing on the entire spectrum of autonomous systems and technologies, including all related components, sensors and services. We bring together industry leaders, innovators and decision-makers to showcase the latest developments, products and services in drones, autonomous mobility and robotics. Attendees from these sectors can not only discover the latest innovations but also build valuable networks, establish partnerships and exchange insights on future market developments. The trade fair, in combination with its specialized conference, offers a unique platform to stay informed about current trends and discuss international regulatory frameworks. Our goal is to achieve unified and comprehensive regulations that can drive the future of autonomous systems forward. We are confident that numerous industries, already part of Messe Düsseldorf GmbH's portfolio, will benefit from this initiative.

Malte Seifert: The idea of launching a trade fair for autonomous technologies emerged in collaboration with the Association for Uncrewed Vehicle Systems International (AUVSI), which has successfully organized XPONENTIAL in the U.S. for 50 years. The demand for a European platform for these cutting-edge technologies is immense and Düsseldorf, with its central location in Europe and strong industrial and research landscape in North Rhine-Westphalia, is an ideal venue. One of the biggest challenges in planning is considering the diverse regulatory frameworks across European countries and designing a program that covers the topics and challenges of all stakeholders. Furthermore, as a new event, we must showcase various industry sectors to ensure that XPONENTIAL Europe offers a broad and unique range of solutions. It goes far beyond being just a "drone and robotics trade fair" by highlighting innovations in autonomous aviation, maritime shipping and logistics automation, along with all necessary components and sensors. Another key focus is addressing the challenges and prospects of automation, as well as integrating autonomous systems into existing road traffic.

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.

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.

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.

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.