A Swedish technology startup company, Einride, which recently revealed the T-pod concept, an autonomous general cargo truck, has now added to its portfolio with the T-log
The T-log is a dedicated electrically-driven round timber transporter.
The vehicle, which was unveiled at a future technology demonstration at the recent Goodwood Festival of Speed, is designed to meet the full level four autonomy standard, meaning it is capable of operating on public roads without a driver on board, legislation permitting.
As such, it consists of little more than a three-axle platform with integral side bolsters and headboard, with no provision for any human on-board driver.
The truck, which has a 16-tonne payload, has a battery capacity of 300kWh giving a claimed range 120 miles on a charge. With multiple radar, lidar and 360 degree camera systems to avoid obstructions, it can be driven remotely by an operator in a location far from the forest.
Einride's CEO Robert Falck said: "The driver’s cab is what makes trucks expensive to produce, and having a driver in the cabin is what makes them expensive to operate. Remove the cabin and replace the driver with an operator who can monitor and remote-control several vehicles at once and costs can be reduced significantly."
Einride claims the T-log will be ready for operation on public roads by 2020.
