In context
In early 2023, automotive suppliers were increasingly turning to autonomous mobile robots (AMRs) to automate intralogistics, driven by labor shortages and the need for flexible, safe production. Forvia's deployment at its Faurecia Clean Mobility plant in Písek, Czech Republic, exemplified this trend, showing measurable gains in productivity and safety.
What was reported
Forvia, an automotive technology company, deployed a fleet of 14 MiR AMRs at its Písek plant, achieving a return on investment in less than two years. The fleet includes seven heavy-duty MiR600 robots handling finished goods—bringing empty pallets to assembly lines and transporting full pallets to logistics—while MiR250 robots move components from warehouse to assembly lines. The robots operate 24/7 across all three shifts.
Previously, logistics relied on manual processes, forklifts, and stackers, with high injury risk. The company automated the heaviest and most dangerous tasks to improve safety and productivity. The MiR Fleet software, combined with internal scripts, optimizes logistics flow and automates communication with doors, gates, and strapping machines. Future plans include integrating MiR Fleet with the ERP system.
Key benefits reported include improved safety by eliminating forklifts on the shop floor, increased productivity across operations, and a payback period of under two years. The robots' autonomy allows easy route changes without magnetic tapes or external guidance, and they can safely navigate around people without reducing efficiency.
“What we appreciate most about these robots is their autonomy, meaning they move freely on the shop floor without any specifically needed equipment.”
Why it mattered
This deployment highlighted how AMRs can deliver rapid ROI while enhancing safety and flexibility in high-mix automotive environments. It underscored the shift from manual or fixed automation to intelligent, autonomous systems that adapt to dynamic shop floors—a model increasingly relevant for manufacturers seeking resilient, scalable logistics.
Source: Robotics & Automation News (roboticsandautomationnews.com) · Published 2023-01-09 · “Forvia increases logistics productivity with fleet of MiR robots”