Volvo CE to open new test and demo area
New innovation zone dedicated to sustainable power, connectivity and autonomous solutions
VOLVO Construction Equipment (Volvo CE) have begun building the world’s first test and demonstration area dedicated to the latest innovations in sustainable power, connectivity and electric autonomous transport solutions, at their Customer Centre in Eskilstuna, Sweden.
The new 66,000 square metre innovation zone will include a secure track for full-electric, automated and teleoperated machines, together with charging infrastructures and 5G connectivity, a control centre and training room building, a spectator grandstand, and a training area for the Volvo Co-Pilot assist functions.
Chief among the innovations on display at the new facility will be the TARA autonomous transport solution from Volvo Autonomous Solutions for defined sites, such as quarries or mines.
‘We are excited to demonstrate our complete TARA solution to customers, including how to set up and run the site, how to charge and store the TA15 electric autonomous haulers, and how we manage the control room and surveillance operations – everything in a brand-new state-of-the-art facility,’ explained Calle Skillsäter, technical specialist in connected machines at Volvo Autonomous Solutions.
The secure track will also showcase remote-controlled machines using two teleoperation rigs installed in one of the control rooms. Meanwhile, another control room will demonstrate, in real time, how the company’s uptime and productivity services can reduce customers’ total cost of ownership and operation.
‘This is an important strategic investment, not just for Volvo CE and Volvo Autonomous Solutions, but for the entire Volvo Group – and is proof of our commitment to drive sustainability through innovation,’ said Carl Slotte, head of sales region Europe & International at Volvo CE. ‘We are looking forward to welcoming visitors to this world-class facility and allowing them to experience exactly how we are building tomorrow.’
The new innovation area is expected to open by autumn 2021 at the latest.
