What is EasyMile's vision for the role of autonomous vehicles in the future of urban mobility, and how do you see them reshaping the way people commute and travel in cities?
There is a definite need for sustainable transportation solutions both in Singapore and around the world. This is particularly driven by the challenges we see today posed by private vehicle dominance, highlighting the potential of shared autonomous vehicles, particularly autonomous shuttles. Autonomous vehicles are ready to reshape the way we move by adding capacity, increasing efficiency, enhancing safety, and improving accessibility. Imagine getting off the MRT at Orchard and stepping straight into an air-conditioned autonomous shuttle. This is the type of integration we will see. However, the adoption of autonomous vehicles also comes with challenges that require careful consideration. There are still technical, cost-related, social and regulatory obstacles. Ongoing collaborative efforts between the industry, policymakers, and the public will be instrumental in shaping this.
What are you doing in Singapore and where do you see the most potential for autonomous solutions here?
Changi Airport Group [CAG] has been partnering with gateway services provider SATS to trial TLD and EasyMile’s EZTow driverless tow tractor for autonomous baggage towing on live flights with the support of the Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore (CAAS).
This aim is to free up airside staff from driving duties to focus on more complex operations such as last-mile baggage handling. It can really change the way the airport deploys manpower.
Changi Airport believes that autonomous vehicle technology and robotics will play a big part in the airport of the future and EasyMile is delighted to be playing a part in this.
The EZTow is the most-deployed autonomous tow tractor globally. It also operates on a number of major automotive manufacturing plants and logistics centers in Europe as wellas the United States. It is also in use at other airports including Narita International in Japan. It's not only at Changi but also in ports where we see potential for autonomous solutions in Singapore.
The deployment of autonomous terminal tractors can revolutionise cargo handling. These vehicles can autonomously transport containers within the port, improving through put, reducing congestion, and minimising delays. With Singapore being a crucial hub for global trade, the integration of autonomous terminal tractors aligns with its commitment to technological advancement and sustainable logistics practices.
Are there specific adaptations or innovations you plan to implement based on this feedback?
Right now we're turning a corner prioritising what is delivering a real return on investment to our clients today and that’s namely the industrial platforms mentioned above - the EZTow which can pull 20 tons, and the port tug with a 60-ton capacity developed with Terberg. We're continuing to develop our technology for the passenger shuttle alongside these and see more mass adoption of this platform in the next 3-5 years.