September 22, 2025
Jen-Yi Chen, Commercial Times
Hsiao Wen-Long, Executive Director of the Taiwan Association of Machinery Industry and President of Forwell Technology Group, stated that artificial intelligence (AI) is driving the vigorous development of numerous industries and sweeping across the globe. Even in the face of international wars, tariffs, exchange rate fluctuations, and other severe impacts on the global economy, the rapid growth of AI has not been hindered. In particular, Taiwan’s machine tool and machinery industries, which have been hit hard by high tariffs and the strong appreciation of the New Taiwan Dollar, have instead found opportunities for transformation. By upgrading through AI-driven innovation and expanding into semiconductor equipment, Taiwan’s machine tool industry has created important breakthroughs to overcome market stagnation. This has gradually opened up new markets and generated fresh business opportunities. Hsiao expressed his hope that Taiwan’s machinery industry will soon rebuild its competitive advantages and regain its position in the international market.
To align with AI development trends, Forwell has invested in the development of high-load AGVs (Automated Guided Vehicles). Models ranging from 5 to 35 tons have already been completed. Forwell’s AGVs feature servo-positioning systems for precise alignment, with automatic lifting platforms that allow safer and easier loading and unloading. They can replace traditional crane operations and are equipped with obstacle-avoidance systems. The AGVs can be remote-controlled or operate autonomously through in-plant mapping. They can be widely applied to the unmanned handling and warehousing of heavy molds, parts, and workpieces. In the future, Forwell will continue to develop higher-tonnage AGV models. Forwell AGVs can be standardized or customized for mass production based on practical needs, fully meeting the demands of AI-based unmanned transport and one-stop production line processes.
Meanwhile, to meet the demand for innovative products across different fields, Forwell’s demonstration factory in Huai’an, China, will establish a Cultural and Creative Center. This center will provide OEM or design services for cultural and creative products, including wireless lifestyle items. The product range is broad—from small souvenirs to larger wireless hand tools—showcasing diverse development directions.
Hsiao Wen-Long pointed out that AI is spreading globally, driving innovation and transformation across industries. Taiwan’s machinery industry is also gradually advancing toward AI applications. The rise of AI will accelerate the development of Industry 4.0 smart manufacturing, forming new competitive landscapes and business value benchmarks in the global machinery sector. In facing drastic market changes and advancing international trends, the machinery industry must actively upgrade and transform, developing core technologies for intelligent production. This will enable the industry to meet the global trend of smart manufacturing, capture business opportunities, and restore its market position.
He further emphasized that for the machinery industry to survive and remain competitive in the future, products with AI-based smart design are no longer optional—they are essential. The potential scale of benefits created by AI is unimaginable. He suggested that machinery manufacturers should quickly introduce innovative products that integrate AI, energy-saving, and environmentally friendly features, in order to prepare in advance for future market demands.
Hsiao also said that to respond to the trends of smart manufacturing, AI integration, and one-stop production lines, Forwell’s Huai’an plant in China will implement its self-developed Forwell AGVs and establish in-plant mapping. In the future, AGV robots will be able to automatically transport processed workpieces to the next workstation or deliver assembled components to designated locations. By introducing AGVs, the plant’s production line can meet one-stop process requirements and achieve smart manufacturing upgrades. Intelligent automation planning will cover production, assembly, and shipment processes. It is expected to be officially implemented within six months, completing the intelligent one-stop production line. In the future, this plan will also be successfully replicated at Forwell’s Taiwan plant.
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