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NRFC Invests $30.7 Million to Kick-Start Production of Applied EV’s Cab-Less ‘Blanc Robot’

The first transport-sector outlay from the National Reconstruction Fund advances local manufacturing for low-speed logistics.

Overview

  • The $30.7 million equity stake from the NRFC constitutes the fund’s first transport investment and contributes over half of Applied EV’s Series B round.
  • Applied EV targets production of about 100 Blanc Robots using the funding, moving from roughly 20 deployments to low-volume manufacturing.
  • The company expects to add about 25 roles to its 113-person workforce as it scales assembly and support in Melbourne.
  • The cab-less platform uses Suzuki Jimny underpinnings with Australian-made electronics and software, including the firm’s ‘Digital Backbone’ control system.
  • Japan Post Capital joined the round alongside Barrenjoey, with the partnership positioned for potential low-speed urban trials in Japan.