©Messe Düsseldorf / ctillmann

The previously fragmented autonomous technology and robotics industry in Europe has found its centre in XPONENTIAL Europe. From 18 to 20 February, the entire value chain was on display in Düsseldorf: from impressive live demonstrations and visionary start-ups to forward-looking conferences and keynotes. The premiere of XPONENTIAL Europe 2025 proved that it is more than just a trade fair: it is an experience, a catalyst for the future, and a platform that brings innovations to life – a pioneering, cross-industry format that unites all relevant players and enables a cross-industry exchange that has never been seen before.

Malte Seifert, Director of XPONENTIAL Europe, is pleased with the successful launch of the event and the positive feedback from the industry: ‘The atmosphere at XPONENTIAL Europe was great – full of energy and valuable exchange. In numerous discussions, it became clear that the industry needed exactly this central platform – a place to discover innovations, find new business partners, maintain networks and find the right products and solutions in a targeted manner.’

The positive mood was also reflected in the visitor survey: around 94 percent of all visitors stated that they had achieved their goals for the visit and were very satisfied. At the same time, the strong international participation with guests from 65 countries – particularly from Europe, North America and Asia – underscored the global relevance of the event.

High-tech live demonstrations, cutting-edge research and international networking

XPONENTIAL Europe offered a unique combination of a trade fair, live demonstrations, and a high-level conference programme. Visitors were able to experience technology up close during the teleoperated test drives at MIRA, the Rhine tram ride, and the drone flights by Quantum Systems, while the spectacular drone show on 19 February impressively showcased the industry’s innovative strength to the trade fair audience. Daily keynotes with internationally renowned speakers brought exhibitors and visitors together and provided important impetus for the future of autonomy.

Interdisciplinary exchange and expert knowledge for the international drone economy

Particularly popular with the audience: the high-calibre supporting programme, which perfectly complemented the trade fair. The EUROPEAN DRONE FORUM, the XPONENTIAL Europe Conference, the Standards Forum and the DRONERESPONDERS European Public Safety & Emergency Response Forum highlighted the latest technological developments, regulatory frameworks and market potential. Industry leaders and start-ups discussed the challenges and opportunities of autonomous systems – from aerospace and the maritime sector to urban mobility.

Michael Robbins, President and CEO of AUVSI, said: ‘The debut proved that XPONENTIAL Europe is more than just an event – it is a movement shaping the future of mobility. Attendees benefited from an in-depth programme, technology demonstrations and networking opportunities that brought together international perspectives. AUVSI is grateful for the collaboration with Messe Düsseldorf and UAV Dach, and together we look forward to attending XPONENTIAL in Houston later this year and returning for XPONENTIAL Europe in 2026.’

‘From the beginning of our collaboration with Messe Düsseldorf and AUVSI, it was clear to us that together we could create something big and significant for our industry with XPONENTIAL Europe,’ says Dr Gerald Wissel, CEO of UAV DACH, Europe’s largest unmanned aviation association and co-host of XPONENTIAL Europe. ‘The feedback from our exhibiting members and the many, many guests at our stand and at the EUROPEAN DRONE FORUM was extremely positive and showed us that XPONENTIAL Europe is the leading trade fair for autonomous systems in Europe right from the start.’

XPO+ Launcher Award: a stage for start-ups

Another highlight was the XPO+ Launcher, where innovative start-ups presented their projects in the field of autonomous technologies and networked with potential investors on all three days. The highlight was the award pitch, in which a high-calibre jury honoured the three best companies. The Croatian start-up ‘Arkensight’ was able to convince with its system-independent AI platform, which simplifies and accelerates aerial image analysis, and not only secured first place but also a free booth at the US version of XPONENTIAL in May in Houston.

The successful premiere and the very good response from industry have laid the foundation for XPONENTIAL Europe to become a permanent fixture as the leading European trade fair. Visitors, exhibitors, and the broad partner network are already looking forward to the next event from 24–26 March 2026, because one thing is certain: the future of autonomous technologies has found a new home in Europe.

The next XPONENTIAL in the United States will be held in Houston from 19 to 22 May 2025.