Stellantis deploys autonomous robot for inventory tracking at US assembly plant

Read more: AI, logistics automation will play central role in reducing Stellantis manufacturing costs

At its 2024 Factory Booster Day, chief manufacturing officer Arnaud Deboeuf and process engineering lead Jean-Christophe Marchal revealed AI projects for digital twins and retrofitting equipment, including for plant logistics.

Deployed during Stellantis’ Factory Booster Day in 2024, the robot moves autonomously throughout SHAP, the primary production hub for the Ram 1500, scanning shelves and capturing images to build a live digital map of the facility.

Developed by robotics company Dexory, the robot and its AI-driven platform – DexoryView – work alongside Stellantis’ workforce to turn warehouse activity into real-time visibility across the facility.

Each full scan undertaken by the robot covers more than 36,000 sq. ft in less than an hour, with multiple scans carried out throughout the day. With each scan, the system updates material inventory, highlights items that may need attention and provides instant insight into part locations and availability.

It also supports dynamic slotting, whereby more frequently used parts are stored in more accessible locations to save time and improve efficiency.

Facts about Stellantis' Sterling Heights Assembly Plant

Built: 1953 (converted to auto plant in 1980)

Floor Space: 5 million sq. ft

Acreage: 286 acres

Products: Ram 1500 (Quad Cab and Crew Cab)

Stellantis has said that this leads to faster, more confident decision-making on the floor that supports accuracy, keeps materials moving and helps teams stay in sync”, combining advanced automation with human experience.

“This technology makes material handling more predictable,” said Chuck Padden, vice president and SHAP plant manager. “By catching and addressing part needs before they reach the line, our workforce has accurate, up-to-the-minute visibility so they can focus on vehicle assembly, knowing the right parts are in the right place at the right time.”

The implementation of this technology is part of Stellantis’ broader efforts to responsibly integrate AI across the company in ways that strengthen manufacturing and enhance the overall customer experience.

Following successful deployment at SHAP, the automaker plans to expand the programme into more facilities, including its Detroit Assembly Complex – Jefferson, its Toledo Assembly Complex and its Warren Truck Assembly Plant, as it explores how it can be used across assembly and powertrain operations.