ARAPL Subsidiary Secures First U.S. Order for Autonomous Truck Loading Robot

ARAPL
Image Courtesy: ARAPL

Affordable Robotic and Automation Limited (ARAPL), India’s first publicly listed robotics company, has successfully secured its first order for the Atlas AC2000, an autonomous forklift robot developed by its subsidiary ARAPL RaaS (Humro). The order, placed by a prominent U.S.-based logistics company, marks a significant step in ARAPL’s global expansion and the entry of its innovative technology into the mobile truck loading and unloading robot category.

This order, which follows successful prototype trials over the last three months at the client’s facilities, includes two Atlas AC2000 robots valued at INR 3.6 crore, leased for three years. This win opens the door to future growth, with the potential for deploying 15-16 robots per U.S. warehouse at the client’s 15 locations over the next two years.

“We’re excited to announce the success of our product in the highly competitive U.S. market,” said Milind Padole, Founder & Managing Director of ARAPL. “This order, following rigorous approvals and successful trials, not only broadens our global footprint but also highlights the increasing prominence of ‘Make in India’ mobile robots in the global warehouse automation industry, traditionally dominated by U.S. and Chinese companies.”

The Atlas AC2000 is equipped with advanced LiDAR navigation, real-time obstacle detection, and precision control algorithms, enabling fully autonomous loading and unloading of trucks. Designed for safe, round-the-clock operation, it integrates smoothly with warehouse management systems (WMS) and ERP platforms, enhancing overall productivity while reducing operational costs.

The robot is a key product of ARAPL’s subsidiary ARAPL RaaS (Humro), which specializes in autonomous mobile robots (AMRs) for warehouses, manufacturing facilities, and logistics hubs. Powered by ARAPL’s proprietary i-ware controller, Humro leverages AI, navigation technology, and swarm robotics to offer scalable automation solutions.

To accelerate growth, ARAPL has announced an investment plan of USD 8-10 million into Humro, which includes USD 3 million from Mr. Padole personally, alongside preferential allotments and debt financing. “Humro has been on the right track since its launch in 2021, with strong client validation and a robust product portfolio. We are now poised for rapid customer acquisition,” said Padole.

Humro recently adjusted its pricing by 10% due to new U.S. tariffs, but emphasized that its products will still be 15-20% more affordable compared to competitors in the U.S. market. This breakthrough comes at a time when demand for automation in logistics and warehouse management is surging, particularly in the U.S., where autonomous mobile robots are being rapidly adopted to improve efficiency and safety. ARAPL is well-positioned at the intersection of AI, robotics, and innovation, driving the future of intelligent manufacturing and logistics solutions worldwide.

Founded in 2005 by Milind Padole, ARAPL started as a Pune-based startup and has grown into a global leader in automation, with a 350,000 sq. ft. manufacturing facility and over 400 employees. The company’s portfolio includes more than 7,000 industrial robots and 10,000 automated car parking systems. In 2018, ARAPL became India’s first listed robotics company, debuting on the BSE SME Exchange and migrating to the NSE and BSE main boards in 2024. The company holds nine patents, three proprietary software platforms, and has a strong research and development pipeline.

Affordable Robotic & Automation Ltd (ARAPL) is a leading provider of turnkey automation solutions across various industries, including automotive, non-automotive, and government sectors. With over a decade of experience, ARAPL’s expertise spans industrial automation, robotic inspection stations, automated assembly systems, robotic welding, and automated car parking solutions. The company operates multiple facilities, including a sales office in Faridabad and a manufacturing plant in Wadki, Pune. In 2018, ARAPL marked a major milestone by becoming a publicly listed company, cementing its position as a leader in India’s robotics and automation industry.

Humro, a subsidiary of ARAPL, is a leader in deep-tech robotics and specializes in autonomous mobile robotic solutions for industries such as manufacturing, warehousing, and logistics. Humro’s intelligent, safety-certified AMRs are powered by patented technology and its proprietary FleetOps software, providing scalable automation solutions at an affordable price. The company offers flexible ownership models, including Robotics-as-a-Service (RaaS), leasing, and perpetual licenses, helping businesses scale operations and improve efficiency without large upfront investments.