Volvo Trucks has signed an agreement with Norwegian quarry Brønnøy Kalk AS to provide its first commercial autonomous option, which will be used to transport limestone from an open pit mine to a nearby port.

Through the agreement, six autonomous Volvo FH trucks will transport limestone on a five kilometer stretch through tunnels between the mine itself and the crusher.

This strategy has been successfully tested and will continue to be tested throughout the rest of the year. The goal is for the solution to be fully operational by the end of 2019.

“We are proud to be able to present an autonomous solution which will meet the challenges of our customers both in terms of safety, reliability and profitability,” says Claes Nilsson, President of Volvo Trucks.

“The global transport needs are continuously changing at a very high pace and the industry is demanding new and advanced solutions to stay ahead. Our aim is to be the leader of the development of products and services to respond to these demands.”

According to Volvo Trucks, this agreement comes after recent successful automation projects that involve mining, sugar cane harvesting and refuse collection. The company adds that this commercial option is a first for it, as Brønnøy Kalk is buying a transport option instead of purchasing autonomous trucks.

“We are continuously looking to increase our efficiency and productivity long-term, and we have a clear vision of taking advantage of new opportunities in technology and digital solutions,” says Raymond Langfjord, Managing Director of the mine.

“We were searching for a reliable and innovative partner that shares our focus on sustainability and safety. Going autonomous will greatly increase our competitiveness in a tough global market.”