Toyota, Ford, Hyundai Experts to Discuss Automotive Robotics - TechCrunch

The Rising Tide of Robotics in the Automotive Industry

Recent developments over the last year have significantly increased attention towards robotics and automation technologies. This trend is observable across numerous sectors, with the automotive industry being a prime example.

Automotive manufacturers have a long-standing relationship with robotics. Automation has been integral to production processes for quite some time. More recently, robotics have become central to the development of autonomous vehicles.

However, this panel discussion will move beyond these frequently discussed areas. Automakers are currently making substantial investments to stimulate further innovation within the broader robotics landscape.

A Diverse Range of Innovation

This is a remarkably diverse field, encompassing projects like Toyota’s Woven City initiative. It also includes Ford’s new research center established at the University of Michigan, and Hyundai’s innovative concept vehicles and the acquisition of Boston Dynamics.

Join us at TC Sessions: Mobility on June 9th for a dynamic conversation with three leading experts from these companies.

Meet the Experts

Max Bajracharya currently holds the position of Vice President of Robotics at Toyota Research Institute. Having previously served as Director of Robotics, he oversees TRI’s robotics research and development efforts. His background includes experience with Alphabet’s X, formerly part of the Google Robotics team.

Mario Santillo is a Technical Expert at Ford Motor Company. Previously a Research Engineer, he is now responsible for guiding the company’s initiatives at its newly established $75 million research facility located at the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor.

This facility supports both Ford’s internal robotics projects and collaborations with innovative startups, such as Agility.

Ernestine Fu serves as a director at Hyundai Motor Group. She leads the development efforts at New Horizons Studio, a team dedicated to designing Ultimate Mobility Vehicles (UMVs). Additionally, she is an adjunct professor at Stanford University, where she earned her BS, MS, MBA, and PhD.

Register for TC Sessions: Mobility

Prepare for an engaging discussion about the future of robotics in mobility. Secure your passes now for $125 and gain insights from today’s foremost mobility leaders before ticket prices increase at the event.