Robots Take Over Bodywork at Russian SUV Factory

Russian carmaker UAZ is deploying smart robotics at its Ulyanovsk plant to streamline welding, cutting, and painting tasks, dramatically boosting precision and cutting down on manual labor.

As Russia ramps up industrial automation, UAZ—best known for its rugged off-road vehicles—is embracing robotics to enhance production at its flagship factory in Ulyanovsk. The new systems are tackling a variety of operations, from metal cutting and chassis assembly to automated body painting.

The robots are praised for their precision and efficiency. By taking over repetitive and physically demanding tasks, they help reduce human error and ensure consistently high-quality results on the assembly line.

One of the plant’s standout models, the long-running UAZ 'Bukhanka' van, continues to evolve with the aid of robotics. A robotic hemming system was recently introduced for its front doors, virtually eliminating defects and improving both the fit and finish of the vehicle’s bodywork.

Also in place is a smart filling station that automatically identifies each vehicle variant and injects the exact amount of coolant into the system, further optimizing the manufacturing process.