Rockwell Automation buys Otto Motors

Rockwell Automation, Inc. has expanded into autonomous production logistics (APL), through its latest acquisition, OTTO Motors.

Otto Motors is a Waterloo, Ontario-based manufacturer and innovator of automated material handling equipment.  With over five million hours of production experience, OTTO autonomous mobile robots (AMRs) are used in operations by some of the world’s most recognized brands. General Electric, Toyota, and Hirotec America, are among its name brand clients. The company has also earned numerous awards for its innovations. 

Rockwell Automation is headquartered in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, and employs approximately 29,000 in more than 100 countries.

Rockwell will showcase Otto Motors equipment at MODEX 2024 in March 11-14. This includes two OTTO 100 AMRs and two OTTO 1500 AMRs equipped with lift and conveyor attachments that can move payloads up to 1500 kg (3300 lbs.). OTTO Lifter, the autonomous forklift capable of moving 1200 kg (2640 lbs.), will be rotating pallets with the OTTO 1500. While getting front row seats to the industry’s most comprehensive AMR fleet in action, attendees can also explore OTTO Motors’ powerful software suite and learn about AMR deployments in mission-critical operations worldwide.

“I can’t think of a better place to see the future of warehouse automation and intelligent material movement than the Rockwell Automation and OTTO Motors properties at MODEX,” said Evan Kaiser, industry director of Warehousing and Logistics at Rockwell Automation. “Workforce shortages and demand fluctuations continue to create complex value chains in the industry. Our technologies help logistics professionals innovate their business and compete in a digital-first marketplace.”

“Rockwell is a titan of industry, and together, we will continue to innovate and empower customers to unlock the hidden potential of their factory with autonomous production logistics,” said Matt Rendall, co-founder and chief executive officer, OTTO.

“With a completely integrated production solution now available under one roof, we look forward to helping manufacturers achieve a fully connected factory that maximizes end-to-end efficiency, flexibility, and visibility.”