Video: Volvo sends first autonomous trucks to mine

Volvo Trucks has signed a deal with Norwegian mining firm Brønnøy Kalk AS to provide its first autonomous vehicle fleet.

Six autonomous Volvo FH trucks will transport limestone on a five kilometre stretch through tunnels between the mine and the crusher.

The agreement involves the mine paying Volvo for a transport service per tonne delivered rather than purchasing the trucks.

Tests have been carried out successfully and will continue throughout 2018 to become fully operational by the end of 2019.

Brønnøy Kalk AS managing director Raymond Langfjord says it’s an “important step” for 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,” Langfjord says.

Volvo Trucks president Claes Nilsson says his company is “proud to be able to present an autonomous solution”.

“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,” Nilsson says.