ABB is assembling robots in America for America
ABB has the largest US assembly operations of any global robotics OEM and is doubling down on robotics as a growth driver, with localisation in the US as strategic priority
In the shift toward smarter, more resilient factories, ABB Robotics stands unapologetically at the forefront, powering transformation across US automotive manufacturing with deep domain expertise, the most comprehensive technology portfolio and a commitment to local innovation. Here is how ABB is redefining what is possible.
A unique US manufacturing footprint
ABB Robotics is proud to have the largest assembly operations in the US of any global robotics OEM. From its Auburn Hills facility in the US state of Michigan, ABB produces robots destined for US automakers and tier suppliers, ensuring local responsiveness, reduced lead times and a supply chain less vulnerable to global disruption.
“We’re proud to be the only robotic OEM assembling robots in America for America,” says Ed Marchese, US Robotics lead at ABB. “That local footprint is more than symbolic, it means our customers benefit from faster delivery, closer support and technology that’s built right here in the communities we serve.”
This local presence is reinforced by ABB’s $20 million expansion in 2024, boosting manufacturing capacity by 30% and doubling the size of its customer training centre. Today, the Auburn Hills site can train up to 5,000 customer employees each year, equipping US manufacturers with the hands-on skills needed to operate and maintain cutting-edge robotic systems.
Comprehensive solutions, deep domain expertise
ABB isn’t just selling robots, it is bringing the full package. More than 500,000 ABB robots are already deployed globally. Its technology is embedded across body shops, paint shops, final assembly and logistics. The portfolio spans industrial robots, autonomous mobile robots (AMRs) and cobots, all unified through digital software that ensures visibility, control and adaptability across operations.
This breadth makes ABB a trusted partner across the entire automotive value chain, from tier one suppliers to major OEMs.
“The US automotive industry is incredibly diverse, from EV start-ups to global OEMs with massive legacy footprints,” Marchese notes. “Our strength lies in understanding those challenges and tailoring automation solutions that deliver flexibility, quality, and scalability, no matter the customer.”
Smart Intralogistics: AMRs on the move
ABB’s AMRs are reshaping material flow in US automotive plants. With 3D vision, AI-driven navigation and Visual SLAM mapping, they operate seamlessly without the need for traditional infrastructure like magnetic tape or QR markers.
The latest Flexley Mover P603 can carry up to 1,500kg, navigating dynamically and adapting to real-world changes on the factory floor. Combined with AMR Studio, ABB makes programming, fleet management and traffic control remarkably intuitive, even for non-specialists.
The power of digital: OmniCore and beyond
ABB’s OmniCore control platform, launched in 2024, sets new standards for performance, integrating cameras, AI, cloud and edge computing into a single modular platform. It is designed to be fast, precise, energy-efficient and adaptable to future demands.
Alongside, ABB’s software ecosystem, which includes RobotStudio, OptiFact, and AppStudio, allows manufacturers to simulate entire production lines before hardware is deployed, optimise data-driven operations, and create custom robotic apps without coding.
“Digitalisation is no longer optional, it’s essential,” Marchese emphasises. “With our control platforms and software, US automakers can move faster from idea to implementation while driving efficiency and sustainability.”
Partnering with US automakers
The automotive industry is racing to adapt to electrification, supply chain pressure and shifting consumer demand. ABB’s local production and training gives US manufacturers not just technology, but confidence and continuity.
• Scale and speed: assembling robots in Michigan ensures faster delivery and support
• Flexibility and continuity: vision-guided AMRs minimise infrastructure investment and maximise adaptability
• Innovation and sustainability: OmniCore and digital tools enable greener, more efficient automation
• Trust and focus: with unmatched domain expertise, ABB is positioned as a true long-term partner.
With 2026 looming large on the horizon, the message to US automotive manufacturers is clear: ABB is doubling down on robotics as a growth driver and on America as a strategic priority.
“Automotive manufacturing is undergoing its biggest transformation in a century,” Marchese concludes. “Being close to our US customers, producing robots in America and backing it up with decades of automotive expertise; that is how ABB Robotics is helping this industry build its future.”
In short, ABB Robotics is more than a technology supplier, it is a strategic partner in US automotive manufacturing. From robots built in Michigan, to AMRs with vision, to digital tools that make invisible opportunities visible, ABB brings the breadth, depth and local presence that American automakers need to thrive in an era of profound change.
Read more about ABB’s support for automotive manufacturing in the US and globally
