The solution for Brønnøy Kalk AS involves six self-propelled Volvo FH trucks transporting the limestone along a five-kilometer route lined with tunnels that connects the mine with the crusher. The solution is already being successfully tested. The plant is due to go into full operation at the end of 2019.

The agreement follows a series of successful automation projects for mining, sugar cane harvesting and waste management. But this time the autonomous solution chosen is a first for Volvo Trucks, as Brønnøy Kalk is not only buying self-driving trucks, but a complete transportation service, with the transport of the limestone between the two hubs.

"This is an important step for us," says Raymond Langfjord, Managing Director of the mining company. "Competition in the industry is fierce. We are constantly looking for ways to improve our efficiency and productivity in the long term and are quite prepared to use new technologies and IT solutions. We were looking for a reliable and innovative partner who, like us, focuses on sustainability and safety. The autonomous transport solution will give us a clear competitive advantage in the highly competitive global market."

"We are proud to present a total autonomous solution that meets our customers' requirements in terms of safety, reliability and profitability," says Volvo Trucks President Claes Nilsson.

"The global demand for transportation is constantly increasing and the industry requires new and modern solutions to keep pace with the rapid development. We want to be a leader in the development of products and services that meet these requirements," continues Claes Nilsson.

"For us, the introduction of autonomous transport solutions is a tremendously exciting moment," says Sasko Cuklev, Director Autonomous Solutions at Volvo Trucks. "By operating in a closed area with a fixed route, we can find out how to get the most out of the solution and how to configure it according to specific customer requirements. It's all about collaborative development of new solutions for more flexibility, efficiency and productivity."