GOTHENBURG, Sweden, May 17, 2017 /CNW/ - With Photo
In the latest research and development in self-driving vehicles, Volvo Group, together with Swedish waste and recycling
specialists Renova, is testing a pioneering autonomous refuse truck that has the potential to be used across the urban
environment. The project explores how automation can contribute to enhanced traffic safety, improved working conditions and lower
environmental impact.
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"There is amazing potential to transform the swift pace of technical developments in automation into practical benefits for
customers and, more broadly, society in general. Our self-driving refuse truck is leading the way in this field globally, and one
of several exciting autonomous innovations we are working with right now," says Lars Stenqvist, Chief Technology Officer, Volvo
Group.
Volvo Group's autonomous refuse truck is designed to make the driving safer in built-up areas, not least when reversing.
Sensors continuously monitor the vehicle's vicinity and the truck stops immediately if an obstacle suddenly appears in its path.
The route is pre-programmed and the truck drives itself from one wheelie-bin to the next. The driver, who walks ahead of the
reversing vehicle, can focus on refuse collection and does not have to climb into and out of the cab every time the truck moves
to a new bin.
"One important benefit of the new technology is a reduction in the risk of occupational injuries, such as wear in knee joints
- otherwise a common ailment among staff working with refuse collection," explains Lars Stenqvist.
The autonomous truck also offers major environmental upsides. Gearchanging, steering and speed are constantly optimised for
low fuel consumption and emissions.
The joint project with Renova will continue until end of 2017. The autonomous truck currently being tested is fitted with a
sensor system for identification, navigation, and monitoring of the vehicle's vicinity. Most of this technology is also used in
the autonomous truck for mining operations that Volvo Group unveiled in 2016. That self-driving truck is undergoing tests in the
Kristineberg Mine in northern Sweden.
More information about Volvo Group's work with autonomous vehicles can be found at http://www.volvogroup.com/automation .
For more stories from the Volvo Group, please visit http://www.volvogroup.com/press .
The Volvo Group is one of the world's leading manufacturers of trucks, buses, construction equipment and marine and industrial
engines. The Group also provides complete solutions for financing and service. The Volvo Group, which employs about 95,000
people, has production facilities in 18 countries and sells its products in more than 190 markets. In 2016 the Volvo Group's
sales amounted to about SEK 302 billion (EUR 31,9 billion). The Volvo
Group is a publicly-held company headquartered in Göteborg, Sweden. Volvo shares are listed on
Nasdaq Stockholm. For more information, please visit http://www.volvogroup.com.
Note to Editors:
A picture accompanying this release is available through the PA Photowire. It can be downloaded from http://www.pa-mediapoint.press.net or viewed at http://www.mediapoint.press.net or http://www.prnewswire.co.uk .
Photo: http://mma.prnewswire.com/media/512494/Volvo_self_driving_refuse_truck.jpg
Video: https://www.multivu.com/players/uk/8103051-volvo-autonomous-self-driving-refuse-truck/
SOURCE Volvo Group
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