Ericsson, Einride, Telia develop autonomous 5G trucks

Power-sustainable self-driving trucks with 5G capabilities are being developed by Einride, Ericsson and Telia.

The overarching goal is to power an all-electric, autonomous transport ecosystem that takes fleet management to the next level.

Ericsson Radio System and Ericsson Cloud Core for 5G are providing high-performance connectivity to Einride’s T-pod — a driverless vehicle operating continuously at DB Schenker’s logistics facilities in Jönköping, Sweden.

“Our driving mission is to lead the sustainable transition of road freight transportation. 5G provides the connectivity and reliability we need to safely introduce the T-pod onto public roads, paving the way for a 90% reduction in CO₂ emissions and the elimination of nitrogen oxide (NO_x) emissions,” said Robert Falck, CEO and Founder of Einride.

The high-capacity and low-latency characteristics of 5G will be cornerstones of future transport solutions. Einride’s T-pod and autonomous transport system, powered by 5G, can potentially replace more than 60% of today’s transport with a cost-competitive and sustainable alternative.

“This pilot is a milestone in the transition to an intelligent transportation system which will be safe, cost-efficient and sustainable. Autonomous, all-electric trucks on public roads is not a dream any more — it’s happening right now. Thanks to our partnership with Einride, and connectivity through Ericsson and Telia, we are at the forefront of this great transition,” said Ewald Kaiser, Chief Operating Officer, DB Schenker.

“5G is a very exciting technology that will enable new sustainable business opportunities and create customer value. Together with our partners, we are building a powerful ecosystem that is going to have a deep impact for customers and society as a whole,” said Mats Lundbäck, Chief Technology Officer, Telia Sweden.

“There is a paradigm shift going on in the transport industry. 5G, with its high data speeds and ultralow latency, is powering a new world of autonomous vehicles that takes fleet management to the next level. Einride’s transportation solution is a perfect example of how 5G can drive cost efficiencies, improve safety and create a sustainable future,” said Åsa Tamsons, Head of Business Area Technologies & New Businesses, Ericsson.

5G presents an opportunity for telecom operators to tap into new revenue streams emerging from the digitalisation of industries. An Ericsson report on 5G business potential shows a US$619 billion revenue opportunity for telecom operators by 2026.

Image courtesy of Ericsson.

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