Highly Automated Freight Transports

Important results from the project

Aim 2016 - create knowledge about HCT vehicles and vehicle automation map logistics systems, adaptations of infrastructure and regulations. Focus 2020: The following three main research questions: 1: How can the use of HCT vehicles contribute to the efficiency of the logistics system? Energy savings are achieved and logistical constraints exist. 2: How can HCT vehicles be automated for greater efficiency? Has not demonstrated on public roads but has generated important results. 3: Adaptations in infrastructure: Dryport and port area. Knowledge of current problems has been mapped.

Expected long term effects

The project has concluded that automation of public transport by trucks will not be implemented at the pace that was thought in 2016. The research results contribute to safety systems and knowledge building for future automation. HCT transportation of unit cargo (containers) requires cooperation between carriers and freight owners, the port is open during the day, freight owners work during the day - ie no night transportation. The port only optimizes for the ships. It´s hard to back off. Continued work is necessary, Borås city´s participation is critical for the continuation.

Approach and implementation

the HAFT Project (2016-05413 & 05415) has generally worked well, big impact of covid-19 when a lot was shut down and digitalized. The project leadership changed four times with good handover. The field trial started at the original end date. The focus changed from automation to HCT and container logistics. A lot of data and knowledge has been collected and analyzed within the work packages. A large number of master thesis and 1 doctoral work have been completed. Understanding of how longtime introduction of autonomous vehicles and how vulnerable a logistics flow is was not understood 2016.