The Valencia-based startup Umibots has tested its innovative autonomous cleaning robot, UmiClean, in a real urban environment through València’s Urban Sandbox. The pilot took place in Plaza de la Reina, one of the city’s most emblematic public spaces.

Created by Valencian entrepreneur Clodoaldo Gonzalez, UmiClean represents a major step forward in urban cleaning by combining artificial intelligence, computer vision, satellite navigation and solar energy.

The robot can operate continuously for up to 24 hours, cleaning up to 4,000 m² per hour at a speed of 5 km/h. Its centimetre-level positioning accuracy enables it to adapt to virtually any area of the public realm.

Designed for streets, avenues and parks, UmiClean detects and avoids obstacles such as pedestrians, bicycles and urban furniture. It also reports completed tasks in real time through an intelligent management platform. Its compact design makes it easy to transport, while its integrated sweeping and scrubbing system ensures efficient and thorough cleaning.

With zero emissions and solar-powered operation, UmiClean is designed for cities committed to sustainability and technological innovation. The system incorporates multiple layers of safety, including LIDAR sensors, cameras, acoustic alarms and geolocation technology to help prevent vandalism.

Participation in Valencia’s Urban Sandbox is enabling Umibots to validate its technology under demanding real-world conditions, supporting its transition towards commercial deployment. With UmiClean, the company aims not only to improve urban cleaning but also to redefine it through an autonomous, efficient and environmentally responsible approach.

Cleaning up after the DANA floods

The urban version of UmiClean has already generated €50,000 in revenue and has been deployed in the municipality of Albal, where it carried out cleaning operations following the damage caused by the DANA weather event.

Meanwhile, UmiClean Beach, the version specifically designed for cleaning coastal areas, has generated €350,000 in revenue and is already operating in Santander and Las Palmas de Gran Canaria.