Hong
Kong Air Cargo Terminals Limited (Hactl) – Hong Kong’s largest
independent cargo handler – is progressing its plan to introduce
Autonomous Electric Tractors (AETs) to its ramp operations
in 2024.
Hactl
has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Westwell Holdings
(Hong Kong) Ltd. (Westwell) to collaborate on the introduction of the
vehicles. Hactl aims to develop autonomous vehicles
which – in addition to the relatively simple task of towing cargo
dollies – automatically couple and uncouple the dollies, and adjust to
their differing specifications.
Once
testing and final on-site tuning and mapping to Hactl’s specific
requirements are completed, the AETs will be progressively integrated
into Hactl’s current driver-controlled tractor fleet, and
will initially tow loaded import ULDs on a 1km route between the
outdoor ULD staging area, and the main terminal ULD system intake deck
of SuperTerminal 1. AETs will be used on longer and more complex routes
in due course.
Safety
is the major consideration in operating the new vehicles. Each AET is
equipped with a highly-accurate GNSS system and uses multiple HD cameras
and LiDAR sensors to detect all objects and avoid
collisions. The AETs have similar capabilities to the current
diesel-powered tractor fleet, but operational speeds will be restricted
to 8kph as an additional safety measure.
The
AETs have a range of up to 75km per charge; being electrically-powered,
they will also make a significant contribution to Hactl’s carbon
reduction programme.
One
of Hactl’s main motivations in moving to autonomous vehicles is the
ongoing challenge of recruiting, explains Wilson Kwong, Chief Executive
of Hactl: “Recruitment for airport-related work, and
particularly airside work, is becoming ever more challenging. This
means we must utilise our available workforce as efficiently as
possible, and deploy them on those duties which make best use of their
experience, skills and abilities.
“After
extensive investigation and research, we believe that the work of
operating towing tractors over set routes should now be feasible using
the latest autonomous vehicle technology, and that
this can be achieved without compromising safety. Although driverless
vehicles are becoming established technology, Hactl is enhancing the
concept with the addition of automated functions specific to its needs.”
Kenny
Tan, Chairman of Westwell, adds: "Handling facilities are crucial
elements in the logistics chain. Westwell will leverage the latest
artificial intelligence technology and clean energy, to
assist Hactl in building a fully automated cargo terminal integrating
green, intelligent, and efficient features."
The
deployment of AETs is Hactl’s first step in the potential wider use of
autonomous vehicles throughout its operations, adds Kwong. “This is just
the beginning. We are exploring additional
applications for this technology, with the aim of further improving
productivity and freeing up staff for more demanding duties, while
continuing to reduce our environmental impact.”