Switching on to Sino-German robots

Industry leader sees key sector as a potential powerhouse for economy

When discussing the links between Germany's Industry 4.0 strategy and Made in China 2025, one of the first things that spring to mind is the robot sector, which is seen as perhaps the most promising area for cooperation.

Siasun Robot & Automation Co, the leading robot maker in China, says it has already achieved many breakthroughs.

The company, based in the northeast city of Shenyang, revealed on June 13 that customers are now using its new industrial robot, which only began mass production in February.

"Our product is a world pioneer," says Ha Enjing, a spokesman for Siasun. "Kuka Roboter (the German robot manufacturer) released its conceptual product last year, but there was no mass production and application. It took us only six months to realize mass production."

Siasun says its robot is a new type of product that combines the functions of a mechanical arm and an automatic guided vehicle.

"The robot has a huge market demand," says Qu Daokui, president of Siasun. "It's one of our key battlegrounds in competition with global robot giants."

Yet despite the quality of the product, the idea of cooperation still appeals, he adds. "We attach great importance to long-term collaboration with Germany."

The company says it has established strategic links with many German companies and achieved win-win results. Last year, BMW Brilliance Auto began using Siasun's robot stamping production line at its plant in Shenyang.

As part of a strategic deal with Siemens AG, the Chinese company will help promote intelligent manufacturing and apply Industry 4.0 technology in China.

In February, Siasun also bought Teutloff Vocational Training Education Group, a leading German mechanical engineering vocational school, for an undisclosed sum.

Contact the writers through liuce@chinadaily.com.cn

(China Daily European Weekly 06/17/2016 page27)