Home Innovation Digital Transformation Epec, Qualcomm Drive AI-Powere...

Epec, Qualcomm Drive AI-Powered Transformation in Heavy Machinery

Digital Transformation

Business Honor
16 April, 2025

Epec and Qualcomm partner to digitally transform heavy machinery with AI, connectivity, and automation.

The off-highway mobile machinery sector is embarking on a significant digital transformation, as Epec from Finland has collaborated with Qualcomm Technologies to provide intelligent, connected, and autonomous equipment. The two companies have joined forces to address key industry challenges for such industries as construction, mining, and agriculture by incorporating advanced positioning, connectivity, and AI-enhanced solutions into heavy machinery equipment.

The focus of the partnership is to speed up machine-to-machine and machine-to-cloud communication, even beyond traditional cellular networks. This will support real-time data exchange, predictive maintenance, and edge computing for key features like collision avoidance, dynamic fleet management, and load optimization. The outcome is enhanced safety, efficiency, and lower downtime.

Epec, known for its expertise in control systems for non-road mobile machinery (NRMM), introduced its high-performance SL8X Control Unit earlier in 2025. The unit offers real-time control and supports both centralized and distributed system architectures, helping manufacturers simplify wiring and reduce hardware complexity.

Under this tie-up, Qualcomm's robust Dragonwing processors and Snapdragon Auto Connectivity Platform will find their way into Epec systems, delivering fast AI computing and improved connectivity. The Dragonwing IQ8 processor-powered in-cab display terminals will deliver real-time machine diagnostics and operating instructions. On-prem GenAI will further enhance automation, offering multilingual, multi-modal maintenance and safe operations assistance.

Also, the businesses will provide ways for electrification with the ability to bring about megawatt charging systems via high-performance connectivity, catalyzing a movement toward cleaner heavy machinery.

Epec CEO Jyri Kylä-Kaila identified the significance of the partnership in extending limits in AI, automation, and sustainability. Qualcomm's Eric Mazzoleni seconded the same, pointing to the capabilities of advanced AI and connectivity in revolutionizing the productivity of the off-highway industry.

This collaboration is a major milestone in the digitalization of industrial equipment, with the promise of smarter, safer, and more efficient operations.