Boliden : Volvo tests driverless truck in Boliden’s Kristineberg mine

'We have a technology that allows our employees to stay at a safe distance, which provides a better working environment,' explains Peter Burman, who is responsible for Boliden's mine automation programme.

In a few years, autonomous and remote-controlled machines will be a clear element of work. Boliden is currently conducting a globally unique initiative to develop automation in mines. The format for this is a cross-functional programme involving employees from Boliden, together with external parties such as Volvo, Ericsson, Atlas Copco and ABB.

Volvo was in contact with many mining areas throughout the world, including Canada and South Africa, to find the best possible place for live testing.

'The choice fell on Boliden and Kristineberg mine, because you showed tremendous commitment and expertise in automation,' says says Christian Grante, technical specialist automation within the Volvo Group.

When the truck is now being used in Boliden's operations Volvo discovers the final adjustments needed and can also perform them in place and test immediately.
'It is extremely valuable to us,' says Volvo's project manager Johan Tofeldt.

You will shortly be able to view Volvo's commercial for the driverless vehicle here.

Photo: Volvo