Automation expert ABB and China’s leading automotive parts supplier, HASCO, announce the creation of a joint venture to drive the next generation of smart manufacturing in China’s automotive industry. The joint venture will build on the existing successful relationship between the two companies, leading to the crucial development of highly flexible and sustainable auto parts manufacturing within HASCO’s China-based operations. As the automotive industry’s transition towards electric vehicles gathers pace, parts manufacturers must increasingly invest in flexible facilities that can respond to rapidly changing demands and trends. The partnership between ABB Robotics and HASCO, which includes a 40% stake by ABB in the joint venture, will expand the use of smart technologies and artificial intelligence within the industry.  Both parties agreed not to disclose any further details about the investment.