Yaskawa MOTOMAN-GP215L, GP400L & GP700: How New Heavy-Payload Robots Improve Large Workpiece Handling

As automotive components, battery cases and industrial workpieces become larger and heavier, manufacturers need robots with greater payload capacity and wider operating ranges.

In June 2026, Yaskawa introduced three heavy-duty industrial robots: the MOTOMAN-GP215L, GP400L and GP700. The new models are designed for large workpiece handling, with payload capacities ranging from 215 kg to 700 kg.

Rather than focusing only on lifting capacity, the new lineup also emphasizes wrist load tolerance, operating range and more flexible production-line layouts.

The three robots cover different handling requirements, from large components to extremely heavy industrial workpieces.

The GP215L combines a 215 kg payload with a reach exceeding 3.1 meters, making it suitable for applications requiring both lifting capacity and a wide working area.

The GP400L offers the longest reach in this lineup at 3,718 mm. It is designed for large workpieces that need to be transferred across a relatively wide production area.

The GP700 focuses on extremely heavy loads. Its 700 kg payload makes it suitable for applications where handling capacity is more important than maximum reach.

One important feature of the new GP series is its improved wrist load tolerance.

According to Yaskawa, compared with conventional models in corresponding classes:

• GP215L provides up to 44% higher wrist load tolerance.

• GP400L provides up to 110% higher wrist load tolerance.

• GP700 provides up to 60% higher wrist load tolerance.

This is important when handling large workpieces with an extended center of gravity or using bulky grippers and custom handling fixtures.

However, maximum payload alone does not determine whether a robot can handle a particular workpiece. Engineers should also evaluate wrist moment, inertia, center of gravity and the actual mounting position of the workpiece.

The GP215L, GP400L and GP700 are designed for demanding material handling operations across several industries.

Automotive manufacturing

Handling vehicle body components, large die-cast parts and battery cases between production stations.

Battery manufacturing

Transporting battery cells and larger battery-related components in production processes.

Construction machinery

Moving heavy structural components, machine parts and large metal workpieces.

Industrial equipment manufacturing

Loading and unloading large processing fixtures, transferring heavy components and supporting automated assembly lines.

The appropriate model depends on workpiece dimensions, weight, transfer distance and available floor space.

Choosing between the three robots requires more than comparing their maximum payload ratings.

Consider the following factors:

1. Workpiece weight: Include the weight of the gripper, tooling and additional fixtures when calculating the required payload.

2. Working distance: Compare the required operating area with the maximum reach of each model.

3. Wrist load conditions: Check allowable moment and inertia, especially when handling long or asymmetrical workpieces.

4. Production layout: Evaluate robot placement, surrounding equipment and potential interference.

5. Cycle time: Consider acceleration, movement distance and the required production rate.

For example, the GP400L may be a better candidate when a long reach is essential, while the GP700 is more appropriate when the workpiece approaches the 700 kg payload class.

The new models give automation integrators more options when designing heavy material handling systems.

Their combination of payload capacity, reach and improved wrist load tolerance can help simplify the selection of robot configurations for large workpieces.

For system integrators, the key is to match the robot with the complete handling system, including grippers, fixtures, safety equipment and controller configuration.

The Yaskawa MOTOMAN-GP215L, GP400L and GP700 expand the company's heavy-duty robot lineup with payload capacities of 215 kg, 400 kg and 700 kg.

The GP215L is suited to applications requiring a balance of reach and payload, the GP400L offers the longest reach, and the GP700 targets extremely heavy workpieces.

For manufacturers planning new heavy material handling systems, these three models provide different options based on payload, wrist load conditions and production layout.