Toyota Material Handling Europe has entered into a strategic partnership with Gideon, a Zagreb-based tech firm specializing in software for autonomous mobile robots (AMRs). The collaboration aims to revolutionize automation in warehouse and manufacturing environments by incorporating Gideon’s advanced AMR technology into Toyota’s global operations.
In a press release, Gideon confirmed that Toyota Industries Corporation (TICO)—which includes Toyota Material Handling Group and Toyota Automated Logistics Group—and Gideon have signed an investment agreement effective immediately. While the Croatian firm did not disclose the size of the investment, the partnership is expected to significantly boost Toyota’s efforts to streamline its automated vehicle systems.
Enhancing Automation and Scalability
Through this collaboration, TICO will be able to standardise processes, shorten deployment times, and improve the flexibility, adaptability, and scalability of its autonomous systems. Gideon‘s technology focuses on automating complex material handling tasks, and by partnering with Toyota, the Croatian company will gain access to Toyota’s manufacturing expertise and its vast global service network.
Josip Ćesić, CEO of Gideon, emphasized the impact of the partnership, stating, “Toyota’s established practices in manufacturing, combined with Gideon’s technology, offer a new approach to automation in the sector.”
Strategic Investment to Strengthen Mobile Automation
For Toyota, this investment aligns with its broader mission to enhance the standardisation and flexibility of its automated vehicle systems. Patric Hed, SVP of logistics solutions at Toyota Material Handling Europe, praised Gideon‘s innovative approach: “Gideon has developed an impressive software stack and vision modules, combining flexible, intelligent autonomous behaviour with a focus on logistics applications and user-friendliness, which will add value to our customers over the coming years.”
Additionally, TICO’s in-house software division, T-Hive, will manage the integration of Gideon’s technology into Toyota’s global automated vehicle portfolio. Norio Wakabayashi, Senior Executive Officer at Toyota Industries Corporation, reiterated the importance of this collaboration: “TICO already holds a strong position in automated vehicles, but this strategic investment underlines our commitment to delivering market-leading mobile automation.”
A Future of Growth and Innovation
This partnership marks a significant milestone for Gideon, as it will not only gain access to Toyota’s global network but also accelerate its growth in the automation sector. By leveraging Toyota’s manufacturing practices, Gideon is well-positioned to further enhance its technologies and contribute to the future of autonomous systems in manufacturing and logistics.
As TICO continues to strengthen its position in the autonomous vehicle market, this investment solidifies Toyota’s commitment to developing the next generation of intelligent automation solutions.
