Volvo Trucks has just signed a landmark agreement to provide its first commercial autonomous solution for Brønnøy Kalk AS, a mine operator in Norway.

The mining trucks will be used to transport limestone from the mine to the port. Six autonomous Volvo FH trucks will operate on a five-kilometre stretch through tunnels between the mine itself and the crusher. Successful testing has been carried out and the fleet will be fully operational by the end of 2019.

“This is an important step for us,” says Raymond Langfjord, managing director of the mine. “The competition in the industry is tough. We are continuously looking to increase our efficiency and productivity long-term, and we have a clear vision of taking advantage of new opportunities in technology and digital solutions. We were searching for a reliable and innovative partner that shares our focus on sustainability and safety.

“Going autonomous will greatly increase our competitiveness in a tough global market.”

Volvo Trucks president Claes Nilsson says Volvo is proud to be able to present an autonomous solution that will meet the challenges of their customers in terms of safety, reliability and profitability.

“The global transport needs are continuously changing at a very high pace and the industry is demanding new and advanced solutions to stay ahead. Our aim is to be the leader of the development of products and services to respond to these demands.”

Commenting on the announcement, Tony O‘Connell, vice president sales – Volvo Trucks Australia, said the commitment to find new ways to better serve customers is a fundamental part of how Volvo Trucks Australia operates.

“We will watch this initiative with interest, whilst continuing to listen to our local customers and deliver industry-leading solutions that meet their current and future requirements.”

Link to video: https://youtu.be/m4wLPfOz-c4