AstaZero, the renowned testing facility located in Sandhult, Sweden, is making waves in the industry by broadening its testing capabilities and offerings. The facility has recently introduced the innovative ‘Generic Site’, an automated testing facility that enables full-scale testing of off-road automated vehicles and their digital systems. This remarkable achievement marks a significant milestone in AstaZero’s mission to advance the field of automated transport.
In collaboration with Volvo Autonomous Solutions, AstaZero celebrated the inauguration of the groundbreaking Generic Site on November 8. The test environment encompasses a comprehensive mine vehicle testing area, covering critical aspects such as loading, charging, energy management, mission control, and optimization. During the launch event, attendees witnessed the impressive sight of Volvo Autonomous Solutions’ battery-electric and cabless TA15 haulers in action at the Generic Site.
Peter Janevik, CEO of AstaZero, highlighted the importance of this development, stating that the Generic Site exemplifies how RISE and AstaZero can assist industry partners in taking essential strides towards advancing automated, sustainable, and secure transport systems. He emphasized that comprehensive mission testing and validation capabilities are crucial for the successful deployment of automated systems in closed environments.
The inauguration event provided a unique opportunity for attendees to witness self-driving vehicles and machines up close, gaining valuable insights from executives at Volvo Autonomous Solutions and AstaZero. Public officials also shared their perspectives on the progress made in this dynamic field and its potential impact on the future of the transportation industry.
Nils Jaeger, President of Volvo Autonomous Solutions, expressed his enthusiasm for the testing facility, highlighting the commitment of around SEK 40 million. This investment showcases their dedication to transforming the movement of goods in mines and quarries while prioritizing safety for all those involved. Jaeger emphasized that the results from the Generic Site will strengthen relationships with industry partners and drive the success of their customers’ autonomous journey.
In addition to the Generic Site, AstaZero offers a range of other test tracks where automated vehicles can be safely, sustainably, and thoroughly tested. The facility’s offerings extend beyond physical test tracks, encompassing digital models, test automation, control, testing services, connectivity solutions, and more. They pride themselves on their holistic approach to advancing automated transport and their ability to design and construct specialized test environments for partners, customers, and research bodies.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What is AstaZero?
AstaZero is an independent, state-owned research institute located in Sandhult, Sweden. It serves as Sweden’s research institute and innovation partner, focusing on the advancement of automated transport systems.
2. What is the Generic Site?
The Generic Site is an automated testing facility introduced by AstaZero that allows for full-scale testing of off-road automated vehicles and their digital systems. It offers comprehensive mission testing and validation capabilities for closed environments.
3. What was celebrated during the inauguration event?
The inauguration event celebrated the launch of the groundbreaking Generic Site test environment, which includes a complete mine vehicle testing area. Volvo Autonomous Solutions’ battery-electric and cabless TA15 haulers were showcased in action during the event.
4. What other offerings does AstaZero provide?
AstaZero offers a variety of other test tracks where automated vehicles can be safely and thoroughly tested. Their offerings extend beyond physical test tracks to include digital models, test automation, control, testing services, connectivity solutions, and more. They can also design and construct specialized test environments for partners, customers, and research bodies.