CNH has inaugurated an advanced virtual simulation ecosystem and an automated AutoStore logistics warehouse at its San Matteo R&D hub in Modena, Italy. This dual €21 million investment advances CNH’s core capabilities, accelerating product development through digital simulation while optimizing supply chain execution through high-speed robotics.
“In a challenging global market, speed and precision are critical. At San Matteo, we are combining advanced simulation with automated logistics to reduce development time, improve product quality, and ensure faster parts availability for our customers across Europe,” said Markus Mueller, President, EMEA at CNH.
The new simulation hub establishes a virtual-first methodology, meaning that it identifies machine design anomalies early in the product lifecycle, quickening time-to-market by over 30%. Operating as an integrated digital twin, this ecosystem minimizes engineering risks, optimizes field validation, and reduces testing emissions across three technological pillars:
Dynamic Simulator: A driver-in-the-loop system on an immersive 6-axis motion platform to test complex vehicle behavior prior to physical production.
Multi-Dyno Test Cell: A controlled environment validating advanced powertrain systems and electric hardware against virtual models.
Advanced Sensor Test Track: A high-repeatability benchmarking facility with full weather simulation to verify precision sensors and autonomous features.
Physical speed: Automated AutoStore logistics
Complementing the virtual R&D hub is a state-of-the-art automated logistics center powered by an advanced AutoStore robotic retrieval system, ensuring parts availability within 24 hours for more than 1,200 dealers and workshops worldwide.
The facility delivers definitive performance breakthroughs compared to traditional warehouses thanks to:
Speed: Retrieval time reduced from 15 minutes to under 30 seconds, up to 550 parts per hour
Efficiency: 70% higher storage density; 85% reduction in physical strain
Sustainability: 93% annual energy savings vs previous system
Anchoring the ‘Tractor Valley’ ecosystem
This milestone reinforces CNH’s commitment to Italy’s Emilia-Romagna region, celebrated as the “Tractor Valley.” To sustain this innovation pipeline, CNH drives open innovation through strategic academic and technical partnerships, including a renewed 2026 framework agreement with the Università di Bologna and ongoing research collaborations with Unimore – (Università di Modena and Reggio Emilia).
