UPS and Aurrigo have announced a project to deploy Auto-Cargo, an autonomous electric vehicle designed to move heavy loads to and from aircraft, at East Midlands Airport.

UPS said the autonomous technology will enable the limited numbers of security-cleared drivers to perform other roles around the airport, with the target of achieving zero tailpipe emissions.

The vehicle can transport a standard full-size cargo pallet or two half-size standard containers or unit load devices (ULD) up to a total load of 7.5 tonnes. It is also designed to tow a further fully loaded cargo trailer behind it.

Aurrigo has significant experience in aviation automation and was involved with the Auto-Dolly and Auto-Dolly-Tug vehicles currently operating airside at Changi Airport in Singapore. 

“This vehicle allows an airfreight operator to help decarbonise and automate its ground operations for lower emissions and greater efficiency,” commented David Keene, Aurrigo CEO

“By combining the tractor and trailer into one unit, we save space, which in a busy cargo hub like East Midlands Airport is vital to efficient loading and unloading of aircraft.’’

The programme is supported by matched funding from Innovate UK and the Centre for Connected and Autonomous Vehicles or CCAV, who have raised around £500,000 in funding. The two companies will develop and pilot Auto-Cargo at East Midlands Airport over a 14-month period.