Aidrivers has begun a Proof-of-Concept exercise with AD Ports Group to explore opportunities to deploy autonomous transport solutions at the Group’s ports and terminals.

Throughout the exercise, the two companies will trial the implementation of autonomous terminal trucks and other advanced transport equipment from Aidrivers’ autonomous ecosystem, including Autonomous truck-related systems of V2X-enabled Fleet Operator (AIFO).

The exercise will initially take place at Zayed Port, with scope to expand to other locations, and will see Aidrivers and AD Ports Group share information on current and future products, R&D, operational data and process flows, terminal planning and business operations in general.

MOEI & AASTMT Discuss Sustainability of Ports, Tackling Oil Pollution

“Across the ports sector, the ability to provide high levels of productivity and efficiency while maintaining excellent Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) standards is essential now, and for future competitiveness,” said Dr Rafiq Swash, CEO of Aidrivers.

“AD Ports Group is leading the way in this respect, and we are pleased to work with them on innovative solutions to address efficiency and resiliency through autonomous transport solutions that are capable of driving in mixed-mode operations — supported by autonomous simulation.”

“The proof-of-concept exercise with AD Ports Group represents a key milestone towards the deployment of autonomous transport solutions in ports and terminals across Abu Dhabi,” said Dr Swash.

Eiman Al Khalaqi, Vice President of Innovation, AD Ports Group said: “Innovation is a key driving force behind the phenomenal growth of AD Ports Group. We are committed to devising and implementing novel technologies and solutions to drive operational excellence.

"By harnessing the power of emerging technologies and working with innovative partners like Aidrivers, we are looking forward to driving growth, operational efficiency, and sustainability across the Group’s portfolio.”

AD Ports Group has maintained a strong growth trajectory and has been expanding its footprint in the region and beyond.

The Group handled 45 million metric tonnes of general and bulk cargo and 3.4 million TEU containers through its ports last year (2021) and leased more than 3 million square metres of industrial land in 2021.

London-based is a global specialist in AI-enabled autonomous solutions and autonomous retrofitting capabilities for industrial transportation automation.

It specialises in the creation and application of autonomous navigation, autonomous simulation, and digital twinning, and fleet operator systems for reducing industrial waste and increasing efficiency, to contribute to decarbonisation in ports and logistics.

Read More: MPA, Port of Rotterdam to Establish Green Corridor for Clean Shipping