On October 30, 2025, Rockwell Automation, Inc. (NYSE: ROK), the world’s largest company dedicated to industrial automation and digital transformation, announced a significant milestone in its journey towards smarter manufacturing. The first autonomous mobile robots (AMRs) have officially rolled off the production line at the company's global headquarters in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. This landmark event marks the culmination of Rockwell's strategic acquisition of Clearpath Robotics in 2023 and reinforces its commitment to advancing automation in manufacturing settings.

2. The OTTO Production Facility

The new 25,000 square feet OTTO production space at Rockwell's Milwaukee campus is now fully operational, assembling the OTTO 600 and OTTO 1200 AMRs. These robots are specifically designed to transport heavy materials safely and efficiently across busy factory floors and within tight spaces, thereby reducing the reliance on manual forklifts. The AMRs are expected to enhance safety, improve transition times, minimize damage to goods, and contribute to more resilient and sustainable manufacturing operations.

Robert Buttermore, Senior Vice President and Chief Supply Chain Officer at Rockwell Automation, highlighted the significance of this expansion, stating, "The expansion strengthens our portfolio of advanced material handling solutions and underscores Rockwell’s leadership as the largest industrial automation company building AMRs in the U.S. It’s also a showcase for our customers, demonstrating how seamlessly and safely these technologies can transform their operations."

3. Innovative Features of OTTO AMRs

The newly introduced OTTO AMRs boast several innovative features that set them apart in the market:

Advanced Navigation: Equipped with laser scanners, these robots can scan their surroundings more than 30 times per second, allowing them to construct a detailed virtual map of their environment.

Collaborative Operation: Leveraging shared communication, each OTTO AMR is aware of the position and movements of other robots in the vicinity, even around corners, ensuring safe and efficient navigation.

Comprehensive Testing: Each OTTO AMR undergoes extensive testing, completing over 15 miles of driving before they are deemed ready for shipment to customers.

4. Strategic Expansion and Future Plans

The establishment of the OTTO production facility in Milwaukee is part of Rockwell’s broader strategy to enhance manufacturing resiliency. While Clearpath and OTTO will continue producing AMRs at their Canadian facilities in Ontario, the Milwaukee operation adds critical capacity and proximity to U.S.-based customers. This move aligns with Rockwell's recent announcement of a substantial $2 billion investment aimed at enhancing plants, digital infrastructure, and talent development to increase market share, build resilience, and expand profit margins.

The new production space at the Milwaukee headquarters is timely, opening just ahead of the upcoming Automation Fair in Chicago, where industry stakeholders will gather to explore the latest advancements in automation technologies. Customer tours of the OTTO Milwaukee facility are expected to commence in early 2026, allowing clients to witness firsthand the capabilities and benefits of these cutting-edge robots.

5. Conclusion

Rockwell Automation's unveiling of the first autonomous mobile robots at its Milwaukee headquarters marks a pivotal moment in the company's efforts to lead the industrial automation sector. With a focus on innovation, safety, and efficiency, Rockwell continues to position itself at the forefront of the digital transformation in manufacturing, reinforcing its commitment to delivering advanced solutions that meet the evolving needs of its customers globally. As the landscape of industrial automation continues to evolve, Rockwell's strategic investments and developments signal a promising future for the industry.

Original press release