Chinese technology company Westwell is developing an autonomous driving tractor for Hong Kong Air Cargo Terminals (Hactl), Hong Kong’s largest independent cargo handler.

The two firms have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to collaborate on the introduction of the Q-Tractor P40 new-energy autonomous electric tractor (AET), which – in addition to the relatively simple task of towing cargo dollies – automatically couples and uncouples the dollies, and adjust to their differing specifications.

Once testing and final on-site tuning and mapping to Hactl’s requirements are completed, the AETs will be progressively integrated into Hactl’s driver-controlled tractor fleet, and will initially tow loaded import ULDs (unit load devices) on a 1km route between the outdoor ULD staging area and the main terminal ULD system intake deck of SuperTerminal One. AETs will be used on longer and more complex routes in due course.

Safety is the major consideration in operating the vehicles. Each AET is equipped with GNSS and uses multiple HD cameras and lidar sensors to detect all objects and avoid collisions. The AETs have similar capabilities to the current diesel-powered tractor fleet, but operational speeds will be restricted to 8kph as an additional safety measure. The AETs have a range up to 75km per charge; being electrically-powered, they will also make a contribution to Hactl’s carbon reduction programme.

One of Hactl’s main motivations in moving to autonomous vehicles is the ongoing difficulty of recruiting, according to Wilson Kwong, chief executive of Hactl.

“Recruitment for airport-related work, and particularly airside work, is becoming ever more challenging,” he said. “This means we must utilise our available workforce as efficiently as possible, and deploy them on those duties which make best use of their experience, skills and abilities. After extensive investigation and research, we believe that the work of operating towing tractors over set routes should now be feasible using the latest autonomous vehicle technology, and that this can be achieved without compromising safety. Although driverless vehicles are becoming established technology, Hactl is enhancing the concept with the addition of automated functions specific to its needs.”

Kenny Tan, chairman of Westwell (en.westwell-lab.com), added: “Handling facilities are crucial elements in the logistics chain. Westwell will leverage the latest artificial intelligence technology and clean energy to assist Hactl in building a fully automated cargo terminal integrating green, intelligent and efficient features.”

The deployment of AETs is Hactl’s first step in the potential wider use of autonomous vehicles throughout its operations.

“This is just the beginning,” said Kwong. “We are exploring additional applications for this technology, with the aim of further improving productivity and freeing up staff for more demanding duties, while continuing to reduce our environmental impact.”

Intelligence and sustainability are driving Westwell’s development towards smart airports. This cooperation also injects new energy into Westwell’s globalisation efforts. So far, Westwell has increased efficiency and sustainable productivity value to over 200 users in 18 countries and regions worldwide. In the future, Westwell plans to combine new intelligence with green energy sources to empower the global logistics industry in achieving higher efficiency and more sustainable value enhancement in the realm of intelligent green evolution.

Launched in 1976, Hactl (www.hactl.com) is Hong Kong’s largest independent cargo handler, serving more than 100 airline companies and 1000 freight forwarders.

Its base, SuperTerminal One, is Hong Kong’s largest cargo handling facility, with an annual design capacity of 3.5 million tonnes.