WATCH: Tyne’s smart vision for autonomous robots
The Port of Tyne has completed a successful trial of autonomous electric yard robots, advancing its own autonomy goals and enhancing port operations efficiency and safety.
In a pilot, conducted over one month, the port tested a European-built autonomous yard robot within a controlled port environment, supporting the port’s long-term strategy to deploy intelligent, data-led systems.
“The pilot project with ANT Machines represents a significant step forward not just for the port, but for the wider maritime industry,” said Elaine Scott, director of innovation at the Port of Tyne.
Growing momentum
The trial reflects growing industry momentum around autonomous yard logistics, with the Port of Tyne aiming to future-proof operations through automation, connectivity and real-time data integration.
At the centre of the project was an electric autonomous vehicle supplied by ANT Machines, designed to support container yard logistics and waterside movements.
Testing focused on movements between the container yard and crane, with the robot operating autonomously using advanced sensing technology, including LiDAR, to map its surroundings, detect obstacles and navigate safely.
Trials were conducted under non-live vessel discharge conditions to replicate real-world layouts while maintaining safety.
The project was facilitated through the UK Venture Connect accelerator programme, delivered by the National 2050 Maritime Innovation Hub and supported by funding from Connected Places Catapult through the Department for Transport’s Transport Research Innovation Grant.
ANT Machines CEO Vitaly Chukanov said the trial demonstrated how robotics can be safely integrated into port operations, enabling consistent, predictable movements while at the same time prioritising safety across infrastructure and personnel.
Related Articles
OPERATIONS
OPERATIONS
OPERATIONS