In context
In early 2023, material handling was rapidly shifting toward automation, with manufacturers seeking reliable partners to integrate advanced guidance and control systems into their vehicle lines. This partnership reflects a broader trend of traditional forklift makers collaborating with automation specialists to meet evolving customer demands.
What was reported
Doosan Industrial Vehicle (DIV), a global South Korean forklift manufacturer, announced a partnership with German automation specialist Kollmorgen to strengthen its position in the material handling industry. The collaboration aims to develop custom automated guided vehicles (AGVs) that are efficient, sustainable, and reliable, exceeding future customer requirements.
DIV, present in over 90 countries, offers a product line of more than 179 vehicles, including cushion, electric, and pneumatic forklifts, as well as reach trucks, stackers, and other warehouse vehicles. The company is known for award-winning designs focused on performance, comfort, and ease of use.
Executives from both firms highlighted the strategic fit. Chankyo Chung, vice president of DIV, noted that Kollmorgen invests heavily in R&D and has a proven track record in automation. Tobias Byfeldt, vice president of Kollmorgen Automation, pointed out that both companies share over 50 years of experience in material handling, combining for more than 100 years of know-how.
“Coincidentally, we both share a history of over 50 years of experience in the material handling industry – a combined knowhow of over 100 years that offers tremendous value to our joint customers.”
Why it mattered
This partnership underscores the growing importance of AGV technology in industrial automation, as traditional equipment manufacturers seek to integrate intelligent navigation and control systems. The combined expertise positions both companies to deliver advanced material handling solutions, potentially accelerating the adoption of automated vehicles in warehouses and factories worldwide.
Source: Robotics & Automation News (roboticsandautomationnews.com) · Published 2023-04-06 · “Doosan Industrial Vehicle partners with Kollmorgen for automation”