Holcim testing Volvo autonomous haulers
Volvo and Holcim jointly working on project to test and develop use of autonomous electric haulers
VOLVO Autonomous Solutions and Holcim Switzerland have entered a collaboration to jointly test and further develop the use of autonomous electric haulers in a Swiss limestone quarry. Holcim’s Gabenchopf Quarry, in Siggenthal, has been chosen for the project.
The battery-electric haulers currently being tested are said to mark a ground-breaking step in the industry: not only are they quieter and more sustainable than conventional haulers, but they are also safer – the world’s first commercially available, CE-certified, electric autonomous transport solution for the quarry and cement industries.
‘This project showcases a sustainable transport solution that is commercially viable and combines the technology shifts of connectivity, automation, and electrification,’ said Nils Jaeger, president of Volvo Autonomous Solutions. ‘Through a strong partnership with Holcim Switzerland, this will happen in a real environment driven by two committed companies dedicated to jointly presenting the future.
‘Volvo’s ambition is nothing less but to bring the future of infrastructure and transport solutions to our customers in a commercially viable way, and this innovative commercial project represents the next phase of this journey.’
‘We are delighted to partner with Volvo on this project,’ commented Simon Kronenberg, chief executive officer of Holcim Switzerland and Italy. ‘Our participation in this project represents another step towards fulfilling our sustainability objectives: we seek solutions that are both innovative and environmentally responsible and we are constantly investing in measures to reduce our ecological footprint to help build a sustainable future.’
The testing and likely deployment of electric haulers in their quarry is part of Holcim’s ‘Plants of Tomorrow’ digitization initiative. As part of this initiative, Holcim are testing automation technologies, robotics, and artificial intelligence throughout the entire production process to develop innovative solutions for safer, more efficient, and more sustainable cement production.
