LEAPTING unveils Auto-navigation Forklift Robot to revolutionise solar material handling

Dubai: LEAPTING, a global leader in PV intelligent robotics, has unveiled its latest innovation, the Auto-Navigation Forklift Robot (AFR), designed to revolutionize solar material handling. This heavy-duty, intelligent tracked machine autonomously delivers solar module pallets from laydown yards to installation rows without requiring a human driver or flagman.

Key features of the AFR include a 3,000 kg heavy payload capacity, precision navigation utilizing GPS-RTK, laser SLAM, and 3D computer vision, an all-terrain tracked chassis capable of handling extreme desert conditions, advanced safety features such as 360° multi-line LiDAR and intelligent obstacle avoidance, and up to 8 hours of continuous operation per charge.

The AFR is part of LEAPTING's comprehensive robotic ecosystem, which operates under a unified cloud software architecture for both construction and operations & maintenance phases. It joins the company's existing robotic fleet, which includes the Module Mounting Robot, Autonomous Cleaning Robot, Inspection Robot, and Row-Mounted Cleaning Robot.

The launch event showcased the company's commitment to advancing solar automation, with a panel discussion titled "From Challenges to Solutions: The Role of Robotics in Solar PV" featuring prominent clean energy leaders and industry experts. The panellists discussed pressing industry challenges, such as labor shortages, rising workforce costs, and harsh desert environments, and highlighted how robotics and intelligent automation are crucial for improving site safety, ensuring consistent delivery quality, and accelerating large-scale PV construction.

LEAPTING was recognized for its role in empowering the region with the latest robotics technologies, receiving the RE Robotics Technology Leader Award in the Solaracic Saudi Awards 2026 edition during the Sunrise Arabia 3rd edition in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.