July 2, 2026
The two companies are launching a program to deploy next-generation Unitree humanoid robots, integrated by Innov8 as a provider of intelligent robotics solutions and the master distributor in Europe, with the aim of supporting industrial operations and improving working conditions.
Novares Group, a global technical solutions provider for the automotive industry, and Innov8, an intelligent robotics Solution Provider and Master Distributor of humanoid and service robots in Europe, today announced the launch of a joint proof-of-concept (PoC) program one of the first deployments of humanoid robots in a real automotive manufacturing environment on the continent.
Following the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed between the two companies, a structured testing phase has begun with an initial pilot deployment. The program takes a deliberately pragmatic, fielddriven approach, focusing on identifying specific, repetitive and physically demanding industrial tasks, and evaluating how next-generation robots can perform them safely and reliably alongside human operators.
As a robotics solutions expert, Innov8 is responsible for the entire robotic system, including use-case assessment and implementation, robot selection, on-site integration and deployment, functional safety, operator training and ongoing support. The pilot project is based on Unitree humanoid robots, the global leader in humanoid robotics. This pioneering initiative enables Novares and Innov8 to assess, under real operating conditions, the capabilities of next-generation humanoid robots in an industrial environment.
As Unitree’s master distributor and a trusted systems integrator, Innov8 is among the pioneers bringing humanoid robotics from the laboratory to European manufacturing sites through this partnership with Novares. Combining privileged access to the world’s most advanced robotic platforms with deep integration expertise, Innov8 transforms cutting-edge technology into reliable industrial solutions, positioning both partners at the forefront of Europe’s robotic transformation.
This initiative combines Innov8’s technological innovation with Novares’ extensive industrial and operational expertise. Together, the two companies aim to develop new forms of human-robot collaboration that improve working conditions, relieve operators from repetitive, low-value-added tasks, and build the expertise required for the responsible deployment of industrial automation. Beyond this pilot project, Novares and Innov8 are laying the foundations for the factory of the future by advancing intelligent automation that works alongside people.
IN THEIR WORDS:
«We are enthusiastic about working with Innov8 on this project, which reflects our commitment to anticipating the evolution of the automotive industry. I am pleased to contribute to leveraging each group’s know-how and to creating value for our activities and our employees.»
Frédéric Sipahi · Chief Executive Officer, Novares Group
«Launching one of the first humanoid-robot pilots in European industry with a forward-looking partner like Novares is a defining moment. Our role as Robotics Solution Provider and Master Distributor is precisely this: to make the most advanced robotics platforms work reliably, safely and usefully in real operating conditions. We are proud to put our technology, our expertise and our teams at the service of Novares’ ambition to be a precursor and to help build the future of intelligent robotics in Europe.»
Stéphane Bohbot · Founder & President, Innov8 Robotics
ABOUT NOVARES:
Based in France, Novares is a global supplier of plastic solutions that designs and manufactures complex components and systems serving the future of the automotive industry. The company creates advanced automotive solutions using technical plastic injection for greener, lighter and connected vehicles, with intelligent and intuitive interfaces for all passengers.
Novares co-develops and provides engineering and manufacturing expertise to virtually every OEM in the world and to many Tier-1 companies in the automotive market. Behind the construction of one in four vehicles worldwide, Novares achieved a turnover of €1.1 billion in 2025, with a presence in 17 countries, 33 manufacturing plants, 12 R&D centers and 14 customer service centers around the world.
ABOUT INNOV8 GROUP:
Founded in 2012 by Stéphane Bohbot, Innov8 Group is the French Technology Solution Provider bringing breakthrough technologies to market at home, at work and in public spaces under its signature “Where Innovation Becomes Reality.” The group operates a data-driven Smart Supply platform across three complementary divisions: Innov8 Connect (consumer connected products from 35+ international brands), Innov8 Power (smart energy and climate solutions) and Innov8 Robotics (intelligent and autonomous robotics built on Unitree Robotics, DJI enterprise and Gausium platforms).
A French pioneer in industrial relocation through its proprietary brand Muvit, Innov8 reached €340M in revenue in 2025 (+30%), employs over 200 people across France, Spain, Portugal, Hong Kong and Shenzhen, and has been awarded the EcoVadis Gold Medal for its CSR commitments.