The Cosco Shipping Ports Limited (CSP) Abu Dhabi container terminal, which is located within Abu Dhabi Ports’ flagship deep-water port Khalifa Port, has announced that it will be the first in the Middle East to adopt an autonomous port truck system.
L5 Autonomous Freight Trucks, a sub-brand of ShangHai Westwell-Lab Technology Company, manufactured by Qomolo, are equipped with an advanced 360-degree sensory system with traffic monitoring and driving guidance system, allowing operators to easily direct vehicle navigation and transportation of general and reefer containers.
Following a two-month trial period, CSP Abu Dhabi Terminal will activate a total of six electric Q-Trucks to support mother vessel loading and unloading activities within the facility’s container yard.
Naser Al Busaeedi, Deputy CEO of CSP Abu Dhabi commented, “We are happy to be the first terminal in the Middle East to introduce an autonomous port truck system following the addition of six Qomolo Q-trucks to our container handling fleet. The new vehicles are not only incredibly efficient and cost-effective, but they also allow us to continue our container handling activities for extended periods of time.”
The electric Q-Trucks are powered by a 281 kWh battery which could carry a maximum load of 80 tonnes and have an operating range of 200km. Capable of operating for up to 44 hours continuously, the vehicle’s electrical systems are further enhanced by a temperature control system that aids in extending battery life in extreme weather.
The new Q-Trucks are intended to bring lower transformation and operating costs, as well as a considerable reduction in CO2 emissions and serve as a credible business continuity solution in the event of a labor shortage.
