Nissan deploys AI-driven robots to haul 4,000-lb loads, reshaping Tennessee plant jobs

Nissan’s Smyrna, Tennessee plant has begun the first phase of a six-stage rollout of AI-driven autonomous mobile robots (AMRs) supplied by OTTO, a Rockwell Automation subsidiary. The largest model can transport roughly 4,190 pounds at 4.5 mph, relying on lidar, cameras and other sensors to move around people and equipment. Initial software issues, including a “traffic jam” when two robots were dispatched to the same location, were resolved with help from the robot maker and internal teams.

The AMRs will replace 64 forklift and tug operators, with those employees offered internal transfers or training for higher-skill positions. Nissan says the automation will lower labor costs and boost efficiency, supporting its broader turnaround and potential expansion of robot use to stamping and assembly lines in coming years.