Volvo builds autonomous machine demo area

Volvo’s new test and demonstration area is expected to open in the autumn of 2021

Volvo Construction Equipment is building a test and demonstration area for electric autonomous transport products at its Customer Center in Eskilstuna, Sweden.

Said to be the first in the world, the installation comprises a 66,000m² innovation zone that will include a secure track for full-electric, automated and teleoperated machines.

Carl Slotte, head of sales in the Europe and international regions at Volvo CE, said, “This is an important strategic investment, not just for Volvo CE and Volvo Autonomous Solutions but the entire Volvo Group – and is proof of our commitment to drive sustainability through innovation.

“We are looking forward to welcoming visitors to this world-class facility and allowing them to experience exactly how we are building tomorrow.”

Complete with a charging station and infrastructure area, the new facility will include control rooms located within a training building equipped with 5G connectivity.

According to Volvo CE, one of the control rooms will be used to demonstrate how the company’s uptime and productivity services can reduce customers’ total cost of ownership and operation in real time.

Due to open in the autumn, the demonstration area will also incorporate a spectator stand and a training area, which will be used to help customers familiarise themselves with the manufacturer’s Co-Pilot assist functions.

The facility’s secure track will also allow customers to see Volvo’s TARA autonomous equipment ecosystem in operation.

Volvo’s remote-control TA-15 hauler

Developed by Volvo Autonomous Solutions, the TARA system utilises remote-controlled machines, designed for use in well defined sites like those in the quarrying and mining industry. The system demonstration will include two teleoperation rigs, which will be installed in one of the facility’s control rooms, and will showcase machines such as the company’s TA-15 hauler.

Calle Skillsäter, technical specialist in connected machines at Volvo Autonomous Solutions, said, “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.”