What key AI components are European robot makers still sourcing externally?

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European robot makers are still relying on externally sourced AI compute components such as Nvidia graphics processors
European robot makers say some of the AI robotics know-how that powers humanoid robots is not necessarily available within Europe, including the graphics processors used to run the “brain” of Enchanted Tools’ Mirokai. In that case, the named external component is Nvidia graphics processors, tied to both the robot’s AI functions and the wider generative AI boom.
Nvidia graphics processors are used for the robot’s “brain”
Enchanted Tools’ Mirokai uses graphics processors from Nvidia to power its “brain,” which supports its AI and robotics capabilities. The company’s marketing chief, Richard Malterre, described these graphics processors as an example of AI robotics know-how that is not necessarily available in Europe. This links the robot’s core AI compute needs to a component supplied by an American chip company.
External sourcing is framed as a broader gap in Europe’s robotics AI stack
Malterre’s comments place the Nvidia processors within a wider category of AI robotics know-how that European firms may not be able to source locally. The framing also connects the issue to the broader generative AI boom, implying that compute requirements for advanced robotics can depend on outside supply. While the specific external item named is Nvidia graphics processors, the point is that not all of the needed AI compute capability is available in Europe.
Europe is seeking local manufacturing while keeping some AI compute external
Enchanted Tools said at least 60 per cent of the Mirokai robot is manufactured in Europe, and it is trying to keep that share. Even with that European manufacturing footprint, the company still relies on external AI compute components for the robot’s brain, such as Nvidia graphics processors. This highlights a split between where the physical robot is built and where key AI compute parts come from.
The issue is discussed alongside data and “sovereignty” concerns
European robotics leaders have also raised concerns that if robot production shifts entirely to other regions, sensitive data could be at risk of “falling into the wrong hands.” Francesco Ferro of PAL Robotics said Europe should aim for a “totally European supply chain” rather than focusing only on price. In that context, externally sourced AI components like Nvidia graphics processors are part of the supply-chain question raised by European firms.

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What key AI components are European robot makers still sourcing externally?

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