Botronics

About Botronics

Botronics is a Belgian startup founded in December 2022 by Éric Piraux (CEO), Antoine Van Malleghem (CTO), and Maxime Vande Ghinste (COO). The company specializes in designing and developing embedded AI and autonomous robotics to transform everyday objects into intelligent, connected companions. The initial idea stemmed from CEO Éric Piraux, who, inspired by his Tesla's self-driving capabilities, questioned why his golf trolley couldn't operate autonomously on the course.

The company's mission is to integrate AI-driven autonomy into familiar objects, making the technology feel natural and seamless. Botronics' core technology is a compact, scalable module containing the necessary components for autonomy, which can be integrated into various products. Their first application of this technology is a smart golf trolley named iXi. This autonomous caddy follows the golfer, anticipates movements, and navigates the course independently, avoiding obstacles like bunkers and water hazards without needing a remote control. Beyond carrying equipment, iXi provides golfers with data insights to help them analyze their game. To enhance navigation, Botronics plans to use satellite technology, including Earth Observation satellites and GNSS signals like Galileo, to create precise maps of golf courses.

Botronics' business model involves the development, industrialization, and distribution of its robotic hardware and software. The company raised €800k initially and has secured over €2.6 million from investors to fuel its mission. It also successfully completed a fundraising round with BeAngels in early 2024 to advance the industrialization of the iXi trolley and further its research and development. While the initial focus is on the golf market, serving amateur players who desire a professional caddy experience, Botronics plans to expand its technology into other verticals, transforming items from wheelbarrows to sophisticated electric vehicles.