Nissan deploys autonomous mobile robots at Tennessee assembly plant

The short version

• Nissan is integrating Rockwell Automation OTTO autonomous mobile robots (AMRs) into its Smyrna, Tennessee, vehicle assembly plant.
• The automation project will eliminate 64 forklift and tug operator positions without layoffs, allowing affected staff to move to other roles in the facility.
• The initiative is Smyrna's largest cost-reduction measure this year as Nissan pursues a broader financial turnaround.
• Nissan is evaluating whether to expand autonomous mobile equipment into its stamping and general assembly areas as early as 2027.

Key facts

• Nissan is rolling out autonomous mobile robots built by Rockwell Automation's OTTO unit at its assembly plant in Smyrna, Tennessee.[Business Insider]
• The deployment will phase out 64 forklift and tug operator positions, with Nissan offering affected workers alternative plant roles rather than backfilling the material-handling slots.[Business Insider]
• The robots rely on lidar, cameras, and sensors to carry loads up to roughly 4,190 pounds at speeds near 4.5 mph inside the plant's body shop.[Business Insider]
• Nissan is finishing the first of six planned deployment phases for the mobile robot fleet.[Business Insider]
• The Smyrna plant produces the Rogue, Pathfinder, Murano, and Infiniti QX60, with additional models slated for production next year.[Business Insider]

Sources

Outlet counts describe coverage, not independent confirmation. Reports may share a wire service or original source.

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