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(Oakland, Calif., U.S.), an autonomous robotics company, launches Cartken Hauler, a robust, highly maneuverable robot with increased payload capacity designed to automate mixed outdoor/indoor environment material handling for advanced materials and composites manufacturers. The solution focuses on challenges beyond last-mile delivery, tackling a critical gap in industrial and on-site logistics automation: seamless material handling across complex, mixed environments, multiple levels and diverse terrains.

Moving heavy, sensitive or bulky items between indoor and outdoor production zones remains a largely manual process — one that slows down throughput and adds labor strain. In addition, Cartken says, traditional mobile robot solutions — AGVs and AMRs, for example — often lack the flexibility required for complex industrial environments, such as struggling with uneven ground, ramps, curbs and weather-exposed areas.

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The Hauler, however, makes it possible to more easily transport things like composite molds, raw materials or finished components between fabrication areas, curing ovens, tool storage and loading bays.

Cartken Hauler is designed for industries that demand dynamic, efficient material transport, handling everything from inventory and samples to tools and documents. It combines AI-powered, camera-based autonomy with rugged, all-terrain capabilities, ensuring reliable operation in demanding environments, and navigates safely around people.

The Hauler smoothly navigates uneven concrete, gravel, pebbles, grass, asphalt, dirt, tile and carpet. It also operates reliably in rain, sun, snow and extreme temperatures from -20°C to +50°C. Perception sensors are said to enable navigation in any lighting conditions. The autonomous robot also integrates with existing systems for deliveries across multiple floor levels, with integration for elevators, gates, doors and software systems.

It has a load capacity of 660 lbs (300 kg) on flat surfaces and 550 lbs (250 kg) on 10° slopes, and reaches a top speed of 4.5 mph with a zero-point turning radius and omni-directional steering. Cartken offers the system with a flat base, shelf, enclosed and temperature-controlled compartments capable of maintaining -80°C to +100 °C.