Volvo Pioneers Autonomous, Self-driving Refuse Truck in the Urban Environment

PR68582

GOTHENBURG, Sweden, May 17, 2017 /PRNewswire=KYODO JBN/ -

- 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.

To view the Multimedia News Release, please click:

https://www.multivu.com/players/uk/8103051-volvo-autonomous-self-driving-refuse-truck/

"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 Goteborg, 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 .

For more information please contact Volvo Group's press department, Henry

Stenson +46-31-323-72-29

     (Photo:

http://mma.prnewswire.com/media/512494/Volvo_self_driving_refuse_truck.jpg )

https://www.multivu.com/players/uk/8103051-volvo-autonomous-self-driving-refuse-truck/

SOURCE: Volvo Group