Deeptech unicorn PhysicsX opens regional hub in S’pore to scale AI-powered industrial engineering
It already has 20 employees in Singapore and aims to grow its local team to more than 100 over the next three years.
British AI software firm PhysicsX inaugurated its Asia-Pacific hub in Singapore on October 8, 2023. Established by two ex-Formula 1 engineers in 2019, the company creates AI models for manufacturing jet engine components and semiconductors. With 20 employees in Singapore, PhysicsX aims to expand its local workforce to over 100 in the next three years, including engineering specialists, AI researchers, and simulation experts.
A US$300 million Series C funding round led by Temasek propelled PhysicsX's valuation to US$2.4 billion. The firm, which has experienced rapid growth in Europe and the US, seeks to collaborate with regional public and private entities as it expands its presence across the region. The Singapore hub will enable PhysicsX to bring its technology and engineering capabilities closer to local customers and partners, fostering innovation in a variety of industrial domains.
To further advance AI-powered engineering simulation, PhysicsX has partnered with the Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR) on a US$40 million, five-year collaboration to enhance AI-powered engineering simulation capabilities. This partnership has already benefited Seatrium, an offshore energy engineering company, which reduced the time needed to optimise pipe-layout designs by approximately 40% using PhysicsX's simulation platform.
At the PhysicsX launch event, CEO and co-founder Jacomo Corbo emphasized the transformative potential of AI in the physical world, stating that Singapore's advanced industry, technical talent, research excellence, and government support make it an ideal location for building the future. Deputy Prime Minister Gan Kim Yong highlighted Singapore's goal of embedding AI at the core of its operations, redesigning jobs, and upskilling the workforce.
The National AI Missions initiative will drive transformation in four key sectors - advanced manufacturing, connectivity, finance, and healthcare - which together account for over 40% of Singapore's GDP.
This strategic partnership between PhysicsX and Singapore presents opportunities for both parties. PhysicsX can further develop its technology and scale up its operations, while Singapore can benefit from PhysicsX's solutions to become a more competitive advanced manufacturing hub. Temasek CEO Dilhan Pillay noted that AI applications can address complex engineering challenges, such as cost pressures, manpower constraints, energy efficiency, supply chain resilience, and faster innovation.
As a result, PhysicsX's AI-driven engineering solutions can help Singaporean manufacturers improve their capabilities, competitiveness, and expansion while strengthening Singapore's position as a leading advanced manufacturing hub.
Written by urgent.news from Straits Times Business's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
Also reported by 1 other outlet
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