Dubai South has successfully completed the first-stage trials of self-driving trucks in collaboration with Evocargo, marking a significant step towards autonomous logistics in the UAE. The trials featured Evocargo’s EVO.1, an unmanned electric logistics vehicle, navigating the Logistics District of Dubai South. The initiative is part of Dubai’s broader strategy to become a global hub for smart mobility, integrating advanced technology into its logistics infrastructure.
The EVO.1 vehicles are designed to carry up to two tonnes and can accommodate six EUR-pallets, traveling at speeds up to 25 km/h for distances up to 200 kilometers on a single charge. These electric trucks, which can be charged in as little as 40 minutes depending on the outlet, aim to enhance operational efficiency while reducing environmental impact.
A remote operator was stationed in the Control Centre during the trials to monitor and manage the EVO.1 platforms. This center is equipped with a comprehensive software suite that oversees the vehicle’s operation, checks sensor functionality, and identifies any issues that arise. The trial period, which ran from December 2022 to February 2023, allowed Evocargo to tailor the EVO.1 specifically for the MENA region.
Mohsen Ahmad, CEO of the Logistics District at Dubai South, and Andrey Bolshakov, Founding CEO of Evocargo, were present at the signing ceremony for the memorandum of understanding (MoU) that initiated these trials. Ahmad emphasized the strategic importance of this partnership, highlighting its potential to set new global benchmarks and strengthen the UAE’s logistics sector. He also noted the trials’ contribution to scaling supply chain operations and achieving sustainability goals.
Dubai’s Self-Driving Transport Strategy encompasses various modes of public transport, including metro, tram, bus, taxi, marine transport, cable cars, and shuttles. By integrating autonomous vehicles into its logistics network, Dubai aims to reduce transportation costs significantly, lower environmental pollution, and improve the efficiency of the transport sector.
The EVO.1’s security system includes computer vision for spatial awareness, an automatic diagnostic system, a remote-stop feature, and a standby pneumatic braking system. These features, combined with effective fleet management, enhance the efficiency of freight transportation and minimize truck downtime. The use of electric and hydrogen fuel cells in these vehicles also offers considerable cost efficiencies compared to traditional fuel.
Evocargo’s venture into autonomous logistics in Dubai is supported by its portfolio of 37 protected inventions and technologies. These patents cover various aspects of autonomous driving, including visual positioning algorithms, automatic mapping, sensor calibration, and safety protocols. This technological foundation positions Evocargo as a key player in the development and deployment of self-driving logistics solutions.
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