Volvo Autonomous Solutions and Holcim Switzerland have partnered to jointly test and further develop the use of autonomous electric haulers in a limestone quarry. The two companies are dedicated to seeking infrastructure and transport solutions that are safe, efficient, innovative and sustainable.
Holcim’s quarry Gabenchopf in Siggenthal has been chosen as the site for this project. The battery-electric haulers currently being tested mark a groundbreaking step in the industry: not only are they quieter and more sustainable than conventional haulers, they are also safer – in fact, they are the world’s first commercially available CE-certified electric, autonomous transport solution for the quarry and cement industries.
The testing and likely deployment of electric haulers in its quarry is part of Holcim’s digitization initiative “Plants of Tomorrow”. As part of the initiative, Holcim is testing automation technologies, robotics and artificial intelligence throughout the entire production process in order to develop innovative solutions for a safer, more efficient and more sustainable cement production.