The robotics challenge of the Transformation Hub Wiring Harness is entering its third round. After two successful rounds, the task will be brought even closer to series production in 2026: For the first time, the teams will develop a fully automated process chain for the robot-assisted manufacturing of a hybrid wiring harness module – consisting of various single wires, a twisted pair, a coaxial cable and a hybrid connector system.

This task builds upon the momentum of the 2024 and 2025 challenges. While the initial focus was on individual assembly steps such as connector insertion, cable routing, and cable tie securing, the 2026 challenge involves integrating several of these steps into a single, reliable process. This creates a challenge that reflects many of the technical hurdles of real-world wiring harness production – from flexible gripping technology and AI-based position detection to reliable connection technology.

For companies and research institutions in robotics, mechanical engineering, gripping/sensor technology, control engineering, automation and AI, the challenge offers a unique opportunity to develop, test and present near-series production automation solutions to a broad user base in a realistic environment.

Note:
All details regarding the task can be found in the guide, which you can download as a PDF in the column on the right. The presentation slides from both information sessions are also available for download there.

In addition to physical automation, the Robotics Challenge 2026 is offering digitalization support for the first time. Digital identities, digital manufacturing orders, and the Digital Product Passport (DPP) are being examined.

You can find all the information on the subpage. Accompanying research and digitization module.

The challenge offers a unique opportunity to develop and demonstrate automation concepts for wiring harness production under realistic conditions.

• Access to a realistic task with clear relevance for wiring harness production
• Opportunity to test and further develop innovative solutions in practice
• Potential to open up a new market
• Feedback from a panel of experts from OEMs, suppliers and research institutions
• Visibility in front of a large expert audience at the Innovation Forum Leitungssatz

The challenge is clearly structured and allows for planned preparation.

• October 23, 2025 – Digital Info Session 1 (Overview): Presentation of the objectives, process, and framework. The event is aimed at interested companies and supports them in decision-making and capacity planning.
• November 24, 2025 – Digital Info Session 2 (All details): Presentation of the detailed task as well as all technical requirements and evaluation criteria.
• November 30, 2025 – Registration deadline for the Robotics Challenge 2026: Participation must be registered by this date.
• December 8–12, 2025: Shipping the hardware packages so the teams can begin implementation.
• January – May 15, 2026: Processing period. Development of automation solutions. Support and accompanying materials are available throughout.
• June 17, 2026: Presentation of results within the framework of Innovation Forum's line set 2026 at ARENA2036, Stuttgart. The submitted concepts will be evaluated by a jury of experts from industry and research and presented to a broad professional audience.

The Robotics Challenges 2024 and 2025 have impressively demonstrated the potential of automating wiring harness assembly.

• RC 2024: Automation of an assembly process with a focus on the assembly of connectors, contacts and locking.
• RC 2025: Extended requirements – e.g., integration of multiple connector systems, geometric routing of cables, fixation with cable ties; use of flexible grippers and collaborative robots; broad recognition and positive feedback.

Both years made it clear: Economical automation approaches are realistic when gripping systems, sensors, control technology, and process understanding come together in a well-thought-out overall concept. This is precisely where Challenge 2026 comes in – with a more integrated, industry-relevant task.

More details can be found on the Robotics Challenge 2024 and Robotics Challenge 2025.

To ensure that interested companies and already registered teams can optimally prepare for the Robotics Challenge 2026 To help you prepare, we offer two digital information events.

The first event on 23 October 2025 provides an overview of the objective, process and framework – ideal for anyone considering participation.

The second event on 24 November 2025 provides all the important details about the task, the technical requirements, and the evaluation criteria. It is aimed primarily at teams that have already registered. 

The following links will take you directly to the information and registration:

• Info Session 1: Overview of the Robotics Challenge 2026
• Info Session 2: Detailed Task & Criteria for the Robotics Challenge 2026