Sweden gives Approval for Testing T-Pod, an All-Electric Autonomous Truck at a Logistic Facility in Sweden

Sweden based startup Einride and the Swedish Transport Agency has conducted a real-world condition test called Site Acceptance Test of the former’s autonomous all electric truck T-Pod at the Jonkoping facility. The government has reached a conclusion that T-Pod can operate in accordance to traffic regulations of the country. Einride also announced that it has gained approval for testing the T-Pod on public roads from the Swedish Transport Agency.

Last year, Einride announced partnership with DB Schenker, the global logistic service provider to bring the T-POD truck to DB Schenker’s Jonkoping facility. The Jonkoping facility was the world’s first commercial installation of T-Pod.

CEO of DB Schenker, Jochen Thewes said that autonomous trucks are finding increasing importance in the logistics sector. He added that by collaborating with Einride they are able to bring fully electric autonomous trucks on public roads which a major milestone in transition towards futuristic transport solution.

Founder and CEO of Einride, Robert Falck said that heavy road transport is a significant contributor of global CO2 emissions. The pilot application in Jonkoping facility is a major step forward in achieving sustainable transport systems. The Swedish Transport Agency’s approval is testimonial to T-Pod’s safety.

The agency has allowed T-Pod operation in only short distances on a public road in an industrial area like between a terminal and a warehouse where there are typically low traffic speeds. The permit will expire in December 31, 2020. The partners are planning to use T-Pod for daily transport between terminal and a warehouse later in 2019.

The duo initiated their collaboration in April 2018. They have agreed to pilot T-Pod in Jonkoping and later to other international facilities. Telia and Ericsson have provided high performance 5G network connectivity for the installation.

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