Published: May 17, 2016 |

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Volvo Group has developed a new self-driving truck for mining industry as part of a research and development project.

The research project, which is being undertaken by Volvo Group in partnership with Saab through its wholly owned technology consulting company Combitech, is intended to develop a fully autonomous transport system solution.

Volvo group executive board and chief technology officer member Torbjörn Holmström said: “The Volvo Group has been conducting research into autonomous vehicles for several years and we are delighted to have already developed a solution that we believe will ultimately revolutionize the mining industry.

“We expect to be able to significantly increase our customers’ productivity while at the same time improving fuel efficiency and safety.”

The fully equipped vehicle is designed to navigate and operate autonomously both above and under the ground.

Using sensors and GPS technology, the vehicle can read its surroundings while navigating fixed and movable obstacles.

It will also be able to gather data through its transport system for further optimization of its route and traffic safety.

Volvo Group is currently undertaking several research projects to develop and test various aspects of autonomous solutions.

The projects are aimed at creating sustainable transport solutions while improving traffic safety for customer.

Volvo president and CEO Martin Lundstedt said: “Automation is an exciting field of technology where advances are moving quickly. Solutions already exist and we expect to see more autonomous solutions in the future.”

The firm is planning to demonstrate the fully autonomous truck in a simulated mining environment from 24 to 25 May 2016 in Gothenburg, Sweden.

Source: (May 11, 2016) Energy Business Review

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