Elekta's AI-Powered Evo CT-Linac and Its Strategic Implications for the Global Radiation Oncology Market

The landscape of radiation oncology is undergoing a transformative shift, driven by the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into adaptive radiotherapy systems. At the forefront of this revolution is Elekta's Evo CT-Linac, an AI-enabled linear accelerator launched in May 2024. This next-generation system, equipped with high-definition AI-enhanced imaging (Iris) and real-time adaptive capabilities, is redefining precision cancer care while positioning Elekta as a key player in a rapidly expanding market. For investors, the Evo represents not just a technological leap but a scalable growth opportunity in a sector projected to grow at a compound annual rate of 9.1% through 2029.

AI-Driven Precision: A New Era in Adaptive Radiotherapy

The Evo's core innovation lies in its ability to deliver online and offline adaptive radiotherapy (ART), enabling clinicians to recalibrate treatment plans in real time based on daily anatomical changes in tumors and surrounding tissues. Traditional radiotherapy relies on static treatment plans, which can lose accuracy as tumors shrink or shift during therapy. By contrast, the Evo's AI-powered Iris system enhances cone beam CT (CBCT) imaging, providing sharper visualization of tumor targets and organs at risk. This precision reduces radiation exposure to healthy tissue, minimizing side effects and improving patient outcomes.

Clinical evidence from broader adaptive radiotherapy trials underscores the potential of this approach. For instance, the MIRAGE trial demonstrated a fivefold reduction in genitourinary toxicity for prostate cancer patients using ART, while maintaining therapeutic efficacy. Similarly, hypofractionation-delivering higher doses in fewer sessions-has been shown to reduce treatment costs and improve accessibility, a critical factor in markets like India, where advanced-stage cancers are prevalent. Elekta showcased its Evo system at the Association of Medical Physicists of India - National Congress 2025 in Guwahati. Elekta's Evo system is designed to support these workflows, with full treatment cycles completed in under 20–30 minutes depending on complexity.

Market Positioning and Scalable Growth

Elekta's strategic emphasis on flexibility and accessibility is a key differentiator. The Evo is marketed as a system that can evolve with a clinic's needs, offering both online and offline adaptive options. According to a 2025 market report, the global LINAC devices market is expected to reach $7.83 billion by 2029, driven by demand for personalized medicine and AI integration. Elekta's focus on AI-enhanced imaging and automation aligns with these trends, enabling high-volume centers to treat more patients without compromising quality.

The company's partnerships further strengthen its market position. Elekta's collaboration with the MR-Linac Consortium-a global initiative to accelerate evidence generation in MR-guided radiotherapy-highlights its commitment to innovation. Trials like MARS and DESTINATION-2 are already exploring the long-term benefits of adaptive techniques, providing a pipeline of data to validate the Evo's clinical value. Additionally, Elekta's 2025 Impact Report emphasizes expanding access to advanced radiotherapy in low- and middle-income countries, a move that could unlock significant growth in untapped markets.

Strategic Implications for Investors

For investors, Elekta's Evo represents a dual opportunity: technological leadership and market expansion. The system's AI-driven capabilities address a critical unmet need in oncology-balancing precision with efficiency-while its flexible design ensures broad applicability across healthcare settings. As AI adoption in radiation therapy accelerates, Elekta's early mover advantage could translate into sustained revenue growth.

Moreover, the Evo's alignment with global healthcare priorities-such as reducing treatment costs and improving patient outcomes-positions Elekta to benefit from policy shifts and reimbursement incentives. For example, hypofractionation's cost-effectiveness is likely to attract payers and governments seeking to optimize healthcare spending. Elekta's focus on AI-enhanced imaging also addresses a key bottleneck in adaptive radiotherapy: the time and expertise required for manual plan adjustments. By automating these workflows, the Evo reduces clinician workload, a factor that could drive faster adoption in high-pressure clinical environments.

Conclusion

Elekta's Evo CT-Linac is more than a product-it is a catalyst for redefining cancer care in the AI era. By combining cutting-edge imaging, real-time adaptability, and a scalable business model, Elekta is addressing the evolving needs of clinicians, patients, and healthcare systems. As the radiation oncology market grows, the Evo's ability to deliver precision, efficiency, and accessibility will likely cement Elekta's leadership in a sector poised for transformative growth. For investors, this positions Elekta as a compelling long-term bet in the fight against cancer.