Listen to this article

BlueBotics, a Switzerland-based developer of autonomous navigation technology for automated guided vehicles (AGVs) and autonomous mobile robots (AMRs), was acquired by Zapi Group, for an undisclosed amount. Zapi Group is a manufacturer of electronic speed controllers, electric motors, battery chargers, and associated products for electric and hybrid vehicles. The transaction closed on December 21, 2021.

BlueBotics’ ANT SLAM navigation technology uses a vehicle’s existing laser safety scanners to first identify and then match permanent features in the environment, such as walls, pillars and machines. BlueBotics claims ANT is accurate to ±1 cm / ±1° and that it requires minimal changes to infrastructure.

“The acquisition of BlueBotics is a key strategic move for Zapi Group as it further strengthens our position in the fast-growing automated vehicle sector,” said Giannino Zanichelli, president of Zapi Group. “As a supplier of components for automated guided vehicles, it allows us to move up the value chain into vehicle navigation and fleet management while expanding the range of solutions we can offer our combined customer base.”

BlueBotics claims its ANT navigation technology is used by more than 3,000 vehicles around the world.

“This acquisition is exciting news for BlueBotics. Being part of the ZAPI GROUP, with its global footprint and market reach, will help us expand more strongly around the globe, allow us to engage with more new potential partners, and provide better support to our existing customers,” said Nicola Tomatis, CEO, BlueBotics. “Our team’s knowledge, values, and customer-centric focus are fully aligned with those of ZAPI GROUP. And from a product standpoint, our technologies are a perfect fit.”

In October 2021, BlueBotics signed a distribution agreement with Thai factory automation specialist Planet T & S. The deal is designed to expand its Asian footprint. This was the fourth such Asian agreement BlueBotics has signed in the past three years. It previously signed distribution deals with MacPion in Korea, Altech in Japan, and Shanghai TONGPU Electronics in China.