Big Joe Autonomous Solutions Showcases Four New Solutions at Automate 2026

New AP44, ATC100, ACV40 and ASC40 models expand Big Joe’s integrated approach to warehouse automation and electric fleet modernization

CHICAGO--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Big Joe Autonomous Solutions has debuted four new products at Automate 2026, expanding its lineup of scalable autonomous equipment designed to help customers address challenges with continued labor constraints while improving efficiency and productivity. The new AP44 fully autonomous pallet truck, ASC40 autonomous stacker, ATC100 autonomous tugger, and ACV40 autonomous three-wheel forklift will be showcased this week at Automate. Each of these autonomous solutions have been engineered with Big Joe’s industry proven lithium batteries and designed specifically to support facilities seeking approachable and flexible automation that can be deployed without major facility layout changes or infrastructure modifications.

“Customers are looking for practical and approachable automation that simply works within their existing operations, not systems that require a complete redesign of their facility,” said Nick Malewicki, GM of Big Joe Autonomous Solutions. “This new lineup is designed to help operations move materials more efficiently while giving teams access to simple, scalable technology that can deliver value immediately.”

The AP44

The AP44 is a 4,400 lb. capacity autonomous pallet truck designed to augment the workforce by transporting palletized goods. In manual mode, it functions as a standard electric pallet truck. Semi-autonomous mode lets an operator engage the pallet, step away and let the unit handle transport and drop-off autonomously. Fully-autonomous mode requires no operator involvement, executing a variety of horizontal transport missions independently. Teams can run all three modes within the same operation, scaling autonomy task-by-task rather than committing to a single workflow.

The ASC40

The ASC40 is an autonomous counterbalanced stacker that introduces hands-free vertical material movement for pallet staging, racking and line-side replenishment. A true robot with a 4,000 lbs. capacity, the ASC40 is optimized for autonomous operation only, with a compact footprint and the ability to pick and place loads at heights up to 3 feet. Perfect for facilities that need to automate repetitive stacking tasks in tight spaces, this model offers accessible automation for manufacturers and distribution centers seeking greater throughput without increasing labor requirements.

The ATC100

The ATC100 autonomous tugger is purpose-built to autonomously tow a variety of trailer configurations. The vehicle enables facilities to automate point-to-point transport of carts, components and in-process materials up to 10,000 lbs. The ATC100 also supports mixed human-machine operations in shared workspaces with ease, allowing operators to control the truck in manual mode at any time.

The ACV40

The ACV40 4,000 lbs. capacity autonomous three-wheel forklift rounds out Big Joe's 2026 lineup. Ideal for indoor warehouse operations where traditional IC and electric forklifts have historically been challenging to automate, this solution gives fleets a direct autonomous replacement that allows manual use by an operator on demand. The ACV40 extends Big Joe's push to make autonomous operation accessible across heavier, more demanding applications.

Big Joe’s Automation Approach

"Big Joe has been on the leading edge of the industry's shift from internal combustion to electric, and now we're taking that same approach to autonomous vehicles as well – making it practical, accessible and scalable for the operations that need it most,” said Martin Boyd, Chief Marketing Officer, Big Joe Forklifts. “These four new products aren't just additions to our lineup; they're proof that the path from electric to fully autonomous doesn't have to be disruptive. We're meeting customers exactly where they are and giving them a clear road forward."

Together, these new product launches reinforce Big Joe’s strategy of providing customers with a full spectrum of electric and autonomous solutions, from conventional warehouse equipment to collaborative mobile robotics that are designed to improve workflow efficiency while lowering operating costs.

Visitors to Automate 2026 can see the new products in person at the Big Joe booth #606 where the company will demonstrate how its lithium-powered autonomous equipment can be deployed across warehousing, manufacturing and distribution environments.

About Big Joe Forklifts

Big Joe Forklifts, established in 1951, is a North American leader in material handling solutions with a mission to empower the people who move things and a vision to be the trusted partner delivering disruptive solutions that accelerate the industry's transformation from internal combustion to electric to fully autonomous. Our tagline, Powering Progress, reflects our commitment to innovation and partnership as we deliver lithium-ion forklifts, advanced material-handling equipment, and autonomous solutions through our nationwide dealer network.