Volvo Construction Equipment is building the world’s first test and demonstration facility here to showcase the latest autonomous, connected and electric vehicle technology. It will feature a secure track for full-electric, automated and teleoperated machines, including charging infrastructure and 5G connectivity.
This 66,000m2 innovation zone will include a secure track for full-electric, automated and teleoperated machines with charging infrastructures and 5G connectivity, a control and training room building, a spectator stand and training area for the Volvo Co-Pilot assist functions.
Chief among the innovations on display will be the TARA autonomous transport solution from Volvo Autonomous Solutions, a complete solution designed to operate autonomously within a defined area, like a quarry or a mine. The system consists of Volvo’s electric dumper – the TA15 – any other machines that can operate autonomously and all the necessary infrastructure to make the operations run safe and smooth.
“We are excited to demonstrate our complete TARA solution to customers, including how to set up and run the site, how to charge and store the TA15 electric autonomous haulers, and how we manage the control room and surveillance operations,” says Calle Skillsäter, technical specialist in connected machines at Volvo Autonomous Solutions.
The secure track will also showcase remote-controlled machines, which are likewise ideal for working in quarries or mines, using two teleoperation rigs installed in one of the control rooms. Another of the control rooms, meanwhile, will demonstrate in real time how the company’s uptime and productivity services can reduce customers’ total cost of ownership and operation.
“This is an important strategic investment…and is proof of our commitment to drive sustainability through innovation,” adds Carl Slotte, head of international sales at Volvo Construction Equipment. “We are looking forward to welcoming visitors to this world-class facility and allowing them to experience exactly how we are building tomorrow.”
The new innovation area is expected to open by autumn 2021 at the latest.
image source- ivtinternational.com