Felixstowe powers ahead ahead with smart trucks

The UK’s largest container port, already ahead of the game in autonomous port operations, first deployed 34 autonomous trucks (ATs) at its Trinity Terminal earlier this year. Operating in mixed traffic with conventional vehicles, the rollout has marked a European first in port digitalisation.

“We are proud to be leading the way in autonomous operations in ports. Doubling our fleet of ATs will deliver even greater efficiency and resilience,” said Clemence Cheng, executive director of Hutchison Ports and CEO, Port of Felixstowe.

“The continued scaling up of this project has been made possible by the recent introduction of a private 5G network at the Port of Felixstowe. As well as improving operational consistency and efficiency, the increased use of battery-powered ATs will significantly support our ambition to achieve Net-Zero for Scope 1 and 2 emissions by 2035.”

Better connected

The expansion is supported by Felixstowe’s private 5G network, which is one of the largest of its kind in the UK, ensuring reliable control of both autonomous trucks and conventional port equipment.

Westwell, the China-based technology partner supplying the fleet, highlighted the significance of the collaboration.

A newly commissioned automated battery swap station allows ATs to exchange depleted power units for fully charged ones in just five to six minutes – without manual intervention.

This ensures maximum fleet availability and minimal disruption to operations.

The port’s ATs are equipped with cutting-edge technology, including 128-line LiDAR, 360-degree camera vision, monocular and stereo cameras with radar, in order to achieve maximum levels of safety and performance.