The Swedish seaport has teamed up with EasyMile and Terberg to investigate the technology's maturity level and identify challenges ahead of potential investment.

EasyMile will conduct the trial in several stages using Terberg's 'Drive By Wire' terminal tractor, specifically designed for autonomous/remote control.

The project's initial phase, to kick off after summer holidays, involves brake tests, load testing, and mapping the vehicle's planned routes. At this stage, the vehicle's autonomy will be fully operational, but within a limited route and performing simulated operations only. As the test progresses, so will the complexity of the network driven by the machinery.

Phase 2, to begin in autumn if all goes according to plan, will see the tractor taking part in normal operations alongside human stevedores on the ground. A safety driver from EasyMile will be in the cabin to relay instructions from the truck computer to the vehicle's AVMS (a system for routes and driving behaviours), monitor the autonomous movements, and validate turns.

The Port of Helsingborg will use the test results to decide whether to equip its around 2030-ready new container terminal with autonomous tractors.

Photo: Port of Helsingborg