Volvo Autonomous Solutions (V.A.S.), a division of the Volvo Group, has joined forces with Boliden, a prominent player in the mining and metallurgy sector, in a long-term collaboration aimed at developing and implementing cutting-edge autonomous transport solutions. This partnership encompasses a range of initiatives, including the introduction of autonomous transport systems at Boliden’s Garpenberg site in Sweden.
The maiden deployment of an autonomous transport solution at the Garpenberg facility will focus on the transportation of rock fill from an on-site quarry. As part of this comprehensive undertaking, V.A.S. will provide a full suite of autonomous transport capabilities, encompassing vehicles, hardware, software, a control center, maintenance services, and training.
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The foundation of this solution will rest on V.A.S.’s in-house developed virtual driver technology, seamlessly integrated with the renowned Volvo Trucks’ premium truck range. Furthermore, V.A.S. will supply a wheel loader for the loading operation.
The project, slated to commence in 2023, will follow a structured timeline, starting with a testing and development phase, leading to full-scale implementation and autonomous operations.
Boliden, an industry leader in exploration, mining, smelting, and recycling, envisions that this collaboration will not only enhance safety but also bolster productivity in their operations. Mikael Staffas, President and CEO of Boliden, emphasizes the strategic significance of this partnership, especially as the demand for base metals is expected to surge in the future. Sustainable and competitive solutions, he underscores, will be instrumental in driving value creation in the mining sector.
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Nils Jaeger, President of Volvo Autonomous Solutions, expresses enthusiasm about the transformative potential of autonomy in addressing critical challenges faced by the mining and quarrying industry. From improving safety by reducing human exposure to hazardous environments to enabling round-the-clock, efficient operations, and minimizing emissions through resource optimization, autonomy holds the promise of delivering multifaceted benefits. Jaeger believes that this collaboration with Boliden is poised to usher in a future where autonomous vehicles and human workers collaborate harmoniously, making Boliden’s operations safer, more efficient, and environmentally sustainable.