Ola picks ABB for automation and robotic processes at its upcoming mega factory

Cab aggregator and mobility company Ola has picked Swiss robotics giant ABB for automation solutions for its mega factory in India.

Ola will use ABB’s automation solutions in its factory’s key manufacturing process lines, including painting and welding. ABB robots are expected to be deployed for the battery and the assembly lines of the plant, according to a statement. 

Read: Ola to set up Rs 2,400 cr EV manufacturing unit in Tamil Nadu

ANI Technologies-operated Ola announced last December that it has signed a pact with the Tamil Nadu government to set up a Rs 2,400 crore  e-scooter plant at Hosur. The company  expects to create about 10,000 jobs and produce close to 20 lakh units per year. 

Ola also said that ABB’s robots will be digitally integrated into the mega-factory’s main IT infrastructure while ensuring remote digital connectivity. The robots are expected to run on Ola’s proprietary AI (artificial intelligence) engine and technology stack. 

“We are delighted to bring on board ABB as a key supplier and partner for robotics and automation solutions. ABB’s solutions will be riding on Ola’s own proprietary AI engine and tech stack,” Bhavish Aggarwal, chairman and group CEO said. 

Ola said that its proprietary AI stack will be integrated into all systems, continuously self-learning and optimising all aspects of manufacturing. This would complement the company’s implementation of the internet of everything (IoE) systems.

Once operational to its full capacity, the factory will have over 5,000 robots with automated guided vehicles. 

Read: Ola partners with Siemens to build EV manufacturing facility 

“Increased automation and robotics to make shop-floors safer, more productive and of impeccable quality will fast-track India’s transition to one of the leading agile, self-reliant and high-tech manufacturing economies of the world,” Sanjeev Sharma, Managing Director, ABB India and South Asia, said. 

The scooters are expected to be exported to markets across Europe, UK, Latin America, Australia and New Zealand.