Renault Group has unveiled its state-of-the-art logistics facility in Villeroy, France, showcasing a new era of innovation in the automotive industry. The facility is 100% automated, featuring cutting-edge robotics technology from Exotec, a leading French industrial robotics company.
The centerpiece of the facility is Exotec’s Skypod robots, which autonomously pick items at height, significantly reducing the risk of accidents for operators. These robots are equipped with advanced navigation and handling capabilities, allowing them to swiftly and efficiently navigate complex logistics environments, even in the presence of other equipment and workers.
At the Villeroy site, 191 robots have been deployed according to specific requirements, handling tasks such as picking, inventory management, put-away, and compaction. The facility is capable of preparing nearly 4,000 order lines per hour at its peak, utilizing 14 picking stations.
Xavier Lhors, Director of After-Sales Logistics at Renault Group, expressed pride in the collaboration with Exotec, stating, “Thanks to this solution and the teams in place, we will be able to increase by 25% the number of orders served and strengthen our commitment to customer satisfaction, which remains a priority for us.”
Thomas Genestar, Managing Director Western Europe at Exotec, highlighted the significance of the partnership, stating, “The collaboration between Renault Group and Exotec combines a flagship of the national automotive industry with an emerging leader in French robotics logistics. Together, we have gathered French industrial know-how and the desire to bring it into a new era.”
He further added, “We are proud to work with Renault Group, a major player in its sector, whose trust demonstrates Exotec’s ability to meet the complex and specific needs of its customers. The flexibility and agility of our Skypod® system, which allows us to adapt to changing production, is an asset for those in the automotive sector who want better operational comfort and greater efficiency.”
