igus introduces ReBeL Pallet Mover for autonomous intralogistics

igus has introduced the ReBeL Pallet Mover, a new solution for automated intralogistics. The autonomous forklift has been developed to help companies address one of the sector’s most pressing challenges: the growing shortage of skilled workers in logistics operations.

According to a study by Fraunhofer SCS, around 94 percent of logistics companies report difficulties in recruiting qualified staff. Warehouse operations are particularly affected, where forklift drivers play a key role. igus has also faced this challenge in its own logistics operations.

“We simply find it increasingly difficult to recruit employees with forklift licenses,” explains Alexander Mühlens, Head of the Low-Cost Automation business unit at igus. “That’s why we developed our own solution capable of automating these tasks.”

Autonomous transport for modern logistics centers
The ReBeL Pallet Mover is an autonomous mobile robot (AMR) designed to carry out transport tasks in warehouses independently. Equipped with advanced sensors and intelligent navigation, the system can pick up pallets, transport them and place them precisely at designated locations.

Integrated sensors detect obstacles in real time, enabling safe operation alongside human workers. This makes the system particularly suitable for dynamic production and logistics environments.

With a purchase price of €67,340, the manufacturer estimates a return on investment within 12 to 18 months.

Compact design with flexible payload options
The ReBeL Pallet Mover features a compact design to facilitate integration into existing warehouse layouts. It measures approximately 1.7 meters in length, just under one meter in width, and around two meters in height.

Depending on the application, igus offers different payload versions:

The vehicle reaches speeds of up to 5.4 km/h and can operate autonomously for six to ten hours, depending on the model. This is enabled by batteries with capacities of 1,104 Wh or 4,320 Wh.

The system can also be customized to specific customer requirements, including different fork configurations.

Cost-efficient automation for small and mid-sized companies
To make autonomous intralogistics accessible to smaller businesses, igus designed the system with a strong focus on cost efficiency. By reducing component complexity and integrating safety infrastructure directly into the front section of the forklift, the company significantly lowered the acquisition cost compared with conventional solutions.

“A frequently discussed topic is the configuration of the fork arms. With the ReBeL Pallet Mover, this is completely flexible,” says Alexander Mühlens.

Live demonstrations at logistics events
Demand for autonomous forklifts and other AMR solutions continues to grow. igus emphasizes that autonomous systems are intended to support human logistics professionals rather than replace them.

Before implementation, companies can carry out a proof-of-concept test. The system is also presented at industry events such as LogiMAT and during the company’s AMR Days, where logistics managers can experience the ReBeL Pallet Mover in real operating scenarios.

With the ReBeL Pallet Mover, igus expands its Low-Cost Automation portfolio and provides companies with a practical solution to increase efficiency, automation and resilience in intralogistics operations.

Edited by Maria Brueva, Induportals editor - adapted by AI.

www.igus.com