A Dubai-based company, Evocargo, has successfully completed the first stage of trials for the UAE’s first driverless trucks. The trials took place in a closed area of the Dubai South Logistics District, where the unmanned electric truck, Evocargo N1, navigated a predefined route and interacted with other road participants like automobiles, trucks, and pedestrians. The tests focused on object detection, accident prevention, collision avoidance, and emergency stops. The autopilot system of the truck was also tested in a range of manoeuvres, including parking and turning.
The driverless truck trials were first announced in December 2022 as part of Dubai’s goal to have 25% of total transportation in the emirate autonomous by 2030. The Evocargo N1 has a lifting capacity of 2 tonnes, can accommodate up to six Euro pallets, and can travel at a speed of 25 kmph for up to 200km. Charging the vehicle for a full day’s operation takes 40 minutes to six hours, depending on the outlet. The security system of the truck includes computer vision, an automatic diagnostic system, a remote-stop system, and a standby pneumatic braking system.
According to Evocargo, automatic pilot systems increase the efficiency of freight transportation while reducing truck downtime. The use of electricity and hydrogen fuel cells instead of conventional fuel offers cost efficiencies. Mohsen Ahmad, CEO of the Logistics District – Dubai South, stated that the collaboration with Evocargo has reinforced the UAE’s position in the industry and will lead to significant advancements in the regional logistics sector. Autonomous vehicles are expected to revolutionize the industry, enhance efficiency, and reduce the overall carbon footprint.
Ahmed Al-Ansi, CEO of Evocargo Autonomous Logistic Services, mentioned that the trials aim to attract new customers and investments in the GCC countries, which are on track for world leadership in innovative technology. Evocargo aims to be a pioneer in commercial suppliers of cutting-edge services in cargo transportation based on their own electric unmanned vehicles. The use of autonomous vehicles in the logistics industry is expected to create a sustainable and technologically advanced infrastructure that will benefit Dubai and the UAE.
Overall, the successful completion of the driverless truck trials by Evocargo marks a significant milestone in the development of autonomous transportation in the UAE. The trials demonstrated the capabilities of the Evocargo N1 in navigating predefined routes, interacting with other road participants, and performing various manoeuvres. The use of autonomous vehicles is expected to enhance efficiency, reduce truck downtime, and contribute to a sustainable logistics infrastructure in Dubai and the UAE. With further advancements in autonomous technology, the future of transportation in the region looks promising.
