Scandinavian Robot Systems India Pvt Ltd (RSP India), a subsidiary of Sweden-based Robot System Products AB (RSP), has launched its first manufacturing facility in Chennai. This strategic move aims to capitalize on India’s burgeoning robotics market by localizing production, enhancing cost-effectiveness, and establishing India as a pivotal manufacturing hub for South Asia.
RSP, headquartered in Sweden, an industrial powerhouse near Stockholm, has been an independent entity for over two decades, having previously operated as part of ABB’s robotics division. The company specializes in producing peripheral equipment for industrial robots, rather than the robots themselves. Their flagship product, the tool changer, allows robots to seamlessly switch between different tools, significantly enhancing their versatility for tasks such as drilling, welding, and more. RSP primarily focuses on industrial robots, particularly six-axis articulated robots, which mimic the movements of a human arm.
“We offer solutions like tool changers, which facilitate easy tool switching, swivels for infinite rotation, and customized hose packages that simplify robot integration,” said Arvind Vasu, Managing Director of RSP India, which commenced operations in November 2023. “Our plug-and-play systems help minimize costly automation downtime.”
Focus Area
The Chennai facility will initially concentrate on manufacturing dress packs for robots, encompassing automatic tool changers, swivels, tool parking stands, and cable and hose management systems. As local supplier partnerships flourish, RSP plans to expand its product range by leveraging the region’s robust manufacturing ecosystem.
“This facility is crucial to our growth strategy in India,” emphasized Eddie Eriksson, President of RSP AB. “By localizing production, we can swiftly customize products, cater to customer needs more efficiently, and establish a sustainable presence in the region. Furthermore, it solidifies our position as a South Asia hub, complementing our existing hubs in Europe and North America.”
RSP primarily supplies its products to system integrators – companies that design and construct manufacturing cells incorporating one or more robots for operations such as machine tending or welding. In large-scale automotive settings, RSP collaborates with line builders responsible for managing entire production lines.
The automotive sector remains RSP’s largest market segment, driven by the widespread adoption of robotics in this industry. However, RSP also recognizes significant potential in other sectors, including general manufacturing, electronics, and consumer goods.
India’s robotics market has witnessed remarkable growth in recent years. In 2002, India’s annual robot consumption hovered around 1,500-2,000 units. Pre-pandemic, this figure surged to approximately 4,000 robots per year. By 2023, India had consumed around 8,500 robots, with projections suggesting that the country’s annual robot consumption could surpass 10,000 units in 2024, according to data from the International Federation for Robotics.
By establishing a manufacturing presence in India, RSP is well-positioned to capitalize on this burgeoning market and contribute to the country’s growing prominence in the global robotics landscape.
Subscribe:
Stay connected with the latest updates, exclusive insights, and curated content by subscribing to my newsletter.
