Survey reveals how much digital twins cut emissions and costs

Digital twins can be used for for cities. Image: Adobe Stock, created by AI

Despite these benefits, and that 96% of executives said they recognise the value digital twins can bring to their organisations, only 16% plan to substantially increase their investment in the technology in the next two years.

Hexagon’s Digital Twin Industry Report, based on insights from 660 global executives across eleven industries, also reveals that Artificial intelligence (AI) integration is driving further interest in digital twins with 80% of executives saying that AI has increased their interest in the technology.

Just under half of respondents (43%) said that their company plans to add AI functionality to their digital twins within the next year, enhancing data analytics and decision-making capabilities.

“Leaders are realising that AI is not just a feature but the key to maximising the potential of digital twins,” says Burkhard Boeckem, chief technology officer, Hexagon.

“From processing massive data sets to driving smarter decision making, AI has become a core component of digital twin strategies. Organisations embracing AI will reap the rewards in efficiency, innovation and long-term growth.”

Digital twins are also proving valuable in helping companies meet sustainability goals. 78% of organisations report reduced carbon emissions due to adoption. On average, these companies see a 15% reduction in emissions.

One of the report’s key insights highlights the gap between expectations and reality.

Only one out of five respondents without a digital twin believe that a digital twin could help with collaboration; in reality, nearly half (44%) of people with a digital twin are experiencing collaboration benefits – a 25% difference between expectations and reality.

“Digital twins offer value at every stage of maturity. Even initial implementations deliver measurable benefits, with incremental gains in efficiency, sustainability and overall performance as more data is integrated,” says Frank Suykens, senior vice president of visual computing, Hexagon.

Download the report here.