In this episode, Chris speaks with Hiten Sonpal, CEO of Rise Robotics, a company developing an energy-efficient alternative to hydraulic systems. Using a patented belt-based actuator technology called Beltdraulic™,  Rise delivers the same power as hydraulics — but with significantly more energy efficiency, lower weight, and no fluid leaks. Their tech also supports built-in sensing, enabling AI and autonomous operation out of the box.

Sonpal shares how Rise is approaching commercialization through a focused entry into the lift gate market, a $2 billion space where hydraulic failure and maintenance are common pain points. The Rise solution reduces vehicle downtime and increases driver productivity — offering an ROI that some pilot partners are already validating.