Tennant Company Unveils the X6 ROVR: A New Era of Autonomous Cleaning for Large and Complex Facilities
In an ambitious step forward for autonomous cleaning technology, Tennant Company (NYSE: TNC), a global leader in floor-cleaning solutions, has officially launched the X6 ROVR, a mid-sized autonomous floor scrubber purpose-built to tackle the challenges of expansive commercial and light-industrial environments. This new addition to the ROVR product family marks a significant evolution in Tennant’s automation strategy, delivering enhanced performance, smarter maneuverability, and scalable intelligence that meets the demands of modern facilities.
Designed to clean up to 75,000 square feet per cycle and supported by a robust AI-driven autonomy platform, the X6 ROVR goes beyond mere automation—it redefines what’s possible in hands-free, intelligent floor care. Building on the successful rollout of the compact X4 ROVR, this next-generation solution aims to support a wider variety of environments, from large retail stores and warehouses to logistics hubs, manufacturing spaces, and educational institutions.
Addressing the Workforce Gap with Intelligent Cleaning Automation
As organizations across multiple sectors continue to face workforce constraints—particularly in maintenance and janitorial services—autonomous solutions are no longer a novelty. They are rapidly becoming a necessity. For Tennant, the launch of the X6 ROVR is a direct response to this ongoing challenge.
“Staffing shortages are putting pressure on facility teams to do more with less,” said Dave Huml, President and CEO of Tennant Company. “Routine cleaning is essential but time-consuming. With the X6 ROVR, we’ve created a solution that helps relieve that burden by automating core cleaning tasks in a way that’s dependable, scalable, and intuitive. The goal is to empower cleaning professionals to focus their energy on higher-impact responsibilities while the X6 handles the rest.”
This insight from Huml reflects a growing trend in the cleaning industry: prioritizing human labor for complex or specialized cleaning tasks, while routine floor maintenance is increasingly assigned to autonomous mobile robots (AMRs). With the launch of the X6 ROVR, Tennant positions itself at the forefront of this transformation, offering a solution that’s both user-friendly and robust enough to deliver enterprise-grade results.
Building on Proven Technology: Evolution from X4 to X6
The X6 ROVR represents a significant leap from its predecessor, the X4 ROVR, which was tailored for smaller spaces such as retail stores, medical offices, and educational facilities. The new model maintains the core strengths of its compact counterpart—autonomous operation, intelligent navigation, and data-rich performance tracking—while scaling those capabilities for significantly larger environments.
At the heart of the X6 ROVR is its AI-powered BrainOS® platform, developed by Tennant’s strategic technology partner, Brain Corp. This platform enables real-time route adaptation, obstacle detection, and seamless integration with cloud-based fleet management systems. Operators and facility managers benefit from a powerful set of tools that allow them to remotely monitor cleaning progress, identify efficiency gaps, and optimize cleaning cycles for peak performance.
“The X6 ROVR is not just a bigger version of the X4,” said Seth Rourke, Vice President of Global Product Management at Tennant. “It’s an entirely new class of machine designed to bring high-volume, high-performance cleaning into areas that were previously too large or complex for smaller autonomous units. It’s nimble, compact, and incredibly capable—something we’re excited to bring to our global customers.”
Core Features of the X6 ROVR
The launch of the X6 ROVR introduces several standout features that collectively enhance operational efficiency, reduce manual intervention, and optimize cleaning workflows.
1. High-Capacity Cleaning Performance
With a 26-inch dual-disc scrub path and 25-gallon solution and recovery tanks, the X6 ROVR is built to handle large surface areas efficiently. These specs allow it to clean up to 75,000 square feet per tank, enabling uninterrupted performance over extended periods. Coupled with Lithium-ion battery technology, the X6 supports up to six hours of continuous runtime, minimizing the need for manual recharging and refilling during daily operations.
2. Enhanced Maneuverability in Dynamic Spaces
Despite its powerful cleaning capabilities, the X6 maintains a compact footprint that enables it to navigate through complex layouts and congested environments. Its advanced 3D LiDAR system allows the unit to detect real-time obstacles and dynamically reroute around them, ensuring consistent cleaning performance even in unpredictable settings. This makes the X6 especially well-suited for active spaces like warehouses, hospitals, and educational campuses.
3. Autonomous Docking and Charging
A major advancement with the X6 ROVR is its compatibility with the Tennant XC1 docking station, an optional add-on that takes autonomy one step further. The docking station allows the machine to automatically recharge between cleaning cycles, dramatically reducing manual maintenance and maximizing uptime. In facilities where continuous or scheduled cleaning is critical, this feature alone offers a compelling return on investment.
4. Fleet Intelligence and Performance Tracking
Thanks to BrainOS®, the X6 ROVR comes equipped with a suite of enterprise-level tools for monitoring and managing cleaning operations. From real-time progress reports to heatmaps of cleaned areas, facility managers can gain deep visibility into the machine’s performance and use the data to inform operational strategies. These capabilities support continuous improvement and allow for more accurate resource planning.
Meeting the Needs of Larger and More Complex Facilities
The commercial and industrial cleaning landscape is shifting. Traditional cleaning methods—though still valuable—are increasingly unable to keep up with the scale, complexity, and pace required in modern facilities. The X6 ROVR is Tennant’s answer to this shift, offering an adaptable solution that addresses both current needs and future challenges.
For example, in logistics and distribution centers, where 24/7 operations are common, downtime for floor cleaning is limited. The X6’s extended runtime and optional autonomous docking allow it to operate through the night, cleaning large areas without requiring human oversight. Similarly, in educational facilities, where foot traffic can be unpredictable, the X6’s ability to detect obstacles and adjust in real time makes it a valuable tool for maintaining safety and cleanliness.
In healthcare settings, consistency and hygiene are paramount. The X6 ROVR provides detailed cleaning records and performance reports, which can be used to validate cleaning protocols and meet regulatory requirements. Meanwhile, in retail spaces, the X6 operates quietly and discreetly, avoiding disruption to shoppers and staff while ensuring floors remain clean and safe.
A Strategic Investment in the Future of AMRs
The launch of the X6 ROVR is more than just a product release—it reflects Tennant Company’s ongoing commitment to autonomous mobile robotics (AMR) and smart cleaning technology. The company has made significant investments over the last decade in digital platforms, AI partnerships, and automation R&D, culminating in a product portfolio that combines traditional cleaning excellence with next-generation intelligence.
These investments are paying off. In 2024, Tennant Company recorded $1.29 billion in sales, a testament to the strength of its global operations and the increasing market demand for integrated cleaning solutions. The company employs approximately 4,500 people worldwide and operates a robust manufacturing and service network that spans more than 100 countries. With the launch of the X6 ROVR, Tennant aims to deepen its global market leadership and set new standards in autonomous cleaning.
Customer-Centric Innovation: Designed for Real-World Impact
Tennant’s approach to product development is grounded in listening to its customers. The design of the X6 ROVR reflects years of customer feedback and user testing. Facility managers wanted a machine that was powerful yet easy to operate, intelligent but predictable, and capable of adapting to diverse layouts without sacrificing performance.
“Whether you’re managing a hospital floor, a distribution center, or a university campus, the X6 ROVR is built to make your life easier,” said Rourke. “It delivers measurable results, reduces operational stress, and offers the data and autonomy today’s facilities need to thrive.”
The X6 ROVR also supports sustainability goals. By optimizing water and chemical usage and reducing unnecessary runtime, the machine contributes to more efficient resource consumption—an important factor for companies pursuing green certifications and ESG benchmarks.
Availability and Additional Information
The X6 ROVR will be available for purchase starting April 15, 2025, through Tennant Company’s global sales and distribution network. Customers interested in learning more about the product or requesting a demo can visit the official product page:
Tennant encourages prospective customers to explore its full ROVR lineup, which includes solutions tailored for a wide range of facility sizes and operational needs.
About Tennant Company
Founded in 1870 and headquartered in Eden Prairie, Minnesota, Tennant Company has grown into one of the world’s most respected names in cleaning technology. From industrial scrubbers and sweepers to sustainable cleaning innovations and intelligent automation, Tennant continues to lead the industry in developing solutions that create cleaner, safer, and healthier environments. The company operates manufacturing facilities around the globe and maintains the most extensive field service network in the industry.
