ABB, a leading robotics and automation technology provider, has announced a partnership with Volvo Cars to support the production of the next generation of electric vehicles. This collaboration aims to assist Volvo Cars in achieving its ambitious sustainability targets and further enhancing its position as a leader in the electric vehicle manufacturing industry.
Robotic solutions for energy efficiency
As part of the partnership agreement, ABB will supply Volvo Cars with more than 1,300 robots and functional packages. These cutting-edge robotic solutions, along with ABB’s new large robot family and OmniCore controllers, will enable Volvo Cars to streamline its production processes and achieve significant energy savings. ABB’s advanced technologies are expected to deliver energy efficiency improvements of up to 20% at Volvo Cars’ facilities.
Versatile production tasks
The functional packages provided by ABB will cover a wide range of production tasks essential for electric vehicle manufacturing. These tasks include spot welding, riveting, dispensing, flow drilling, and ultrasonic weld inspection. Each functional package is a comprehensive and ready-to-use combination of hardware, software, and services, specifically tailored to meet Volvo Cars’ production requirements.
Deployment at Facilities
The deployment of ABB’s robotic solutions will take place at Volvo Cars’ facilities in Sweden and China. ABB’s OmniCore robot controllers, known for their regenerative braking and highly efficient power electronics, will be implemented to ensure optimal energy usage and maximize energy savings. ABB’s RobotStudio planning and programming software will facilitate uninterrupted production during the deployment phase, minimizing downtime and enhancing productivity.
Long-standing Collaboration and Future Prospects
Volvo Cars and ABB have a long tradition of collaborating to improve automotive production efficiency and enhance industrial robot capabilities. This partnership builds upon their shared expertise and commitment to sustainable manufacturing practices. With a strong focus on continuously enhancing car production efficiency and pushing the boundaries of industrial robotics, both companies are dedicated to achieving the highest standards in electric vehicle production.
The first deployments of ABB’s robots and functional packages at Volvo Cars’ facilities are expected to occur in early 2024. This collaboration signifies ABB’s significant contribution to Volvo Cars’ sustainable electric vehicle production, allowing them to further strengthen their position as a pioneer in the automotive industry. The ongoing partnership between ABB and Volvo Cars is poised to continue over the next few years, driving innovation and progress in electric vehicle manufacturing. By leveraging ABB’s advanced robotics solutions, Volvo Cars is well-equipped to achieve its sustainability targets and provide customers with next-generation electric vehicles that are not only eco-friendly but also exceptionally well-built.