The Abu Dhabi Ports and the COSCO Shipping Ports Limited (CSP) are set to build a future together in the region with their first autonomous port truck system. It is the first of its kind in the Middle East. The technologically advanced port boasts of the use of smart automation.
The Deputy CEO, CSP Abu Dhabi – Naser Al Busaeedi, states, “We are proud to be the first terminal in the Middle East to implement an autonomous port truck system following the addition of six Qomolo Q trucks to our container handling fleet. Being efficient and cost-effective, the new vehicles also help us sustain container handling operations for longer periods and continue operating in situations where business continuity is an operational challenge. We look forward to experiencing the full potential of these autonomous vehicles in the coming months.”
The six electric Q-Trucks are produced by Qomolo, the sub-brand of ShangHai Westwell Lab Technology Company. The L5 autonomous freight trucks are equipped with an advanced 360-degree sensory system with traffic monitoring and driving guidance system and are also tasked with supporting the mother vessel in loading and unloading activities within the facility’s container yard. The electric Q-Trucks are powered by a 281kWh battery that carries 80 tons and works in an operating range of 200 km. These trucks can operate up to 44 hours continuously. Enhanced by a temperature-controlled system, the trucks direct vehicle navigation and help transport general and reefer containers. Presently these are on a two-month trial period.
The Head of Ports Cluster, Abu Dhabi Ports, Saif Al Mazrouei, stated, “The addition of CSP Abu Dhabi’s Q-Trucks has not only accelerated Khalifa Port’s position as the Middle East’s leading maritime facility but also serves as a prime example of how innovative technologies can transform the maritime and logistics industries.” “Employing solutions powered by ultra-modern technologies, such as artificial intelligence, Internet-of-Things and electrification can enable businesses to achieve a higher level of efficiency while simultaneously transforming their respective operations to be more sustainable and cost-efficient.”
With the innovative Q-trucks entering the scene, they are set to solidify CSP Abu Dhabi and Khalifa Port’s standing as the most advanced maritime facility in the region. The new Q-Trucks deliver reduced transformation and operating costs and a significant reduction in CO2 emissions. Apart from the autonomous port truck system, the greenfield project saw the adoption of the Fleet Management System (FMS) for overseeing the daily activities utilizing Q-Trucks. While simultaneously connecting to multiple systems, the platform provides real-time monitoring and workflow management process.
The future looks bright as CSP Abu Dhabi and Khalifa Ports will continue to explore the potential applications for AI-powered solutions for terminal and port operations.