The RISE test facility AstaZero in Sandhult, Sweden, is expanding its offerings and testing capabilities. This expansion is highlighted by the introduction of the automated testing facility ‘Generic Site,’ described as “a remarkable achievement that enables full-scale testing of off-road automated vehicles and their digital systems.” RISE is an independent, state-owned research institute and acts as Sweden’s research institute and innovation partner.
On November 8, AstaZero, in collaboration with Volvo Autonomous Solutions, celebrated the inauguration of the groundbreaking Generic Site test environment, which includes a complete mine vehicle testing area, covering loading, charging, energy management, mission control, and optimisation. The launch image showed one of Volvo Autonomous Solutions’ battery electric and cabless TA15 haulers at the Generic Site.
Peter Janevik, CEO of AstaZero, emphasized the significance of this development, stating: “Generic Site is an example on how RISE and AstaZero can help industry partners take crucial steps in advancing the automated, sustainable, and secure transport system. Complete mission test and validation capabilities will be critical to deploy automated systems for closed environments.”
The inauguration event offered attendees a unique opportunity to witness self-driving vehicles and machines in action up close. They also had the chance to gain insights from Volvo Autonomous Solutions and AstaZero executives, along with public officials, who provided valuable perspectives on our progress in this dynamic field and its impact on the future of the transportation industry.
“The testing facility represents an initial commitment of around SEK 40 million, showcasing our tangible promise to transform the movement of goods in mines and quarries while lifting the level of safety for all that are involved,” says Nils Jaeger, President of Volvo Autonomous Solutions. “The results of the work conducted at this new testing facility will enable us to develop and strengthen our relationships with industry partners and drive our customers’ future success in the journey of autonomy.”
Beyond the Generic Site, AstaZero offers several more test tracks, where automated vehicles can be thoroughly, sustainably, and safely tested. It states: “AstaZero’s offerings extend well beyond the physical test track, encompassing digital models, test automation, control, testing services, connectivity solutions, and more, ensuring a holistic approach to advancing automated transports. AstaZero can design and construct specialised test environments for any partner, customer or research body.”
