Woodstock, Ontario – Toyota Motor Manufacturing Canada (TMMC) is adding a recent type of worker to its assembly line: a humanoid robot named Digit. The company announced a commercial agreement with Agility Robotics on February 19, 2026, to deploy these robots at its Woodstock facility, marking a significant step in the integration of robotics into automotive manufacturing. The move comes after a successful pilot program and aims to improve efficiency and support employees by taking on physically demanding tasks.
Digit, created by Oregon-based Agility Robotics, is designed for general-purpose operate, capable of handling repetitive and strenuous jobs common in automotive production. The initial deployment will involve three units, with a total of seven robots allocated under the agreement, according to Agility Robotics. This isn’t about replacing workers, but rather augmenting their capabilities and freeing them from tasks that can lead to strain or injury.
A Growing Trend in Industrial Robotics
Toyota’s adoption of Digit is part of a broader trend of companies exploring the use of humanoid robots in industrial settings. Agility Robotics has been gaining traction with its “Robots-as-a-Service” model, attracting interest from Fortune 500 companies. Beyond Toyota, Agility’s robots are also being deployed by GXO, Schaeffler, and Amazon, demonstrating a growing demand for adaptable robotic solutions. The company’s CEO, Peggy Johnson, highlighted the significance of partnering with Toyota, calling it “a privilege to join forces to integrate humanoid robotic solutions like Digit into automotive production.”
Improving Worker Experience and Operational Efficiency
Tim Hollander, president of Toyota Motor Manufacturing Canada, emphasized that the deployment of Digit is intended to enhance both the employee experience and operational efficiency. “After evaluating a number of robots, we are excited to deploy Digit to improve the team member experience and further increase operational efficiency in our manufacturing facilities,” Hollander said in a press release. The robots are specifically designed to handle tasks that are “extremely repetitive and physically taxing,” reducing the risk of strain and allowing employees to focus on more complex and value-added work.
How Digit Works
Digit is a bipedal robot, meaning it walks on two legs, allowing it to navigate human-designed environments more easily than traditional industrial robots. It’s equipped with arms, hands, and sensors that enable it to perform a variety of tasks, including material handling and logistics support. The robot’s ability to stand for extended periods and repeat tasks without fatigue makes it well-suited for the demands of an automotive assembly line. Agility Robotics details the robot’s capabilities on its website.
Toyota’s Canadian Operations
Toyota Motor Manufacturing Canada operates two major vehicle assembly plants, located in Cambridge and Woodstock, Ontario. The Woodstock plant, where Digit will be deployed, is a key part of Toyota’s manufacturing network, serving as the company’s largest manufacturing operation outside of Japan. The company’s commitment to innovation and efficiency is evident in its willingness to embrace new technologies like humanoid robotics.
The integration of Digit into Toyota’s operations represents a significant milestone for the robotics industry and a glimpse into the future of manufacturing. As companies continue to seek ways to improve efficiency, reduce costs, and enhance worker safety, humanoid robots like Digit are poised to play an increasingly important role. Toyota and Agility Robotics plan to continue exploring additional applications for robots and artificial intelligence within the automotive sector.
The next step for Toyota and Agility Robotics will be the full-scale deployment of the initial three Digit robots at the Woodstock facility, with ongoing evaluation and refinement of their performance. The companies will be closely monitoring the impact of the robots on both productivity and employee well-being.
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