Article Summary
SATA's jetstream is an automated spray application robot designed to handle 35-50% of spray work in collision repair shops, addressing labor shortages and improving efficiency while allowing skilled painters to focus on complex refinishing tasks that require expertise.
- The jetstream robot performs 35-50% of spray application work, significantly reducing manual labor demands in collision repair.
- Designed to fill workflow gaps, not replace painters—the technology allows skilled technicians to focus on complex refinishing tasks where their expertise adds the most value.
- Currently undergoing pilot testing in Germany with North American launch planned, including a demonstration unit at SATA's training center in Vaughan, Ontario.
- SATA is continuously developing the jetstream in collaboration with CurveRobot and paint companies to optimize capabilities and integration with existing paint systems.
- The system will be showcased at Automechanika Frankfurt from September 8-12, 2026, marking a key milestone for broader market introduction.
With SATA Automation announcing its partnership with CurveRobot to distribute the new jetstream — currently introduced in Europe with North American release in the planning stage — it's understandable that many are wondering what automation means for the future of collision repair.
The answer is simple: SATA's goal is to help address the industry's labour shortage, improve efficiency, optimize resources and increase repair plan consistency, all while ensuring a profitable repair process.
"The jetstream is currently performing approximately 35 to 50% of the spray application work," said Joern Stoever, general manager of SATA Canada.
"It’s a journey of efficiency and productivity, not to replace painters but rather to fill gaps in workflow and available resources that currently stretch overall repair times and reduce production capacity. A skilled workforce remains essential, even as AI and automation continue to transform industries and redefine job roles. While occupations will evolve, people with strong technical skills, adaptability and a commitment to lifelong learning will remain in high demand.”
By allowing the robot to handle assigned tasks, painters can focus on more complex tasks in the refinish process, where their expertise adds the greatest value.
“It’s going to be part of a more efficient work process that improves productivity without replacing people. Increased capacity requires coordination, quality control and workflow integration,” said Les Pawlowski, national sales manager at SATA Canada Inc. “We are seeing automation in other parts of the body shop as well. The change is going to be revolutionary. There’s a lot that can be done eventually — this is technology that will evolve over time.”
Looking ahead, Stoever explained that SATA's next step in North America is to install a jetstream system at the company's training centre in Vaughan, Ontario, with installation targeted for the end of this year.
“We are currently in the final evaluation stages to operate the system as a demonstration unit at our training facility. Like any new technology, the jetstream will continue to evolve. However, its current capabilities and the potential for further development make its expected return on investment highly attractive.”
SATA, in collaboration with CurveRobot's development team, are continuously working on the integration and development of the technology to enhance its capabilities.
“At the same time, we are working together with paint companies to optimize the robot with their paint systems.”
Currently, the system is proving its capabilities with a pilot customer in Germany. For its broader market introduction, the jetstream will be on display at Automechanika in Frankfurt from September 8–12, 2026.
You can view a short video and learn more at the SATA website:
