Scan Global Logistics (SGL) and Cycle & Carriage (C&C) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to launch an autonomous transport solution in Singapore using an electric autonomous vehicle, designed to transport commercial cargo. The partners are currently finalising the operational arrangements for the vehicle to be deployed on the roads for a supervised trial in Q4 2026.
C&C already supports SGL’s last-mile distribution to retail stores in Singapore with electric vans, and since 2024, the two companies have explored how autonomous technology could complement SGL’s existing logistics operations to create greater value for its customers.
The initiative is nearing the final stage of implementing a 100% electric autonomous vehicle that uses sensors, cameras and software to navigate and drive without a human driver. The vehicle has obtained homologation approval, confirming that it meets all relevant technical, safety, environmental and regulatory requirements. The proposed routes and supporting documentation are under final review by the authorities.
‘Successful deployment of an autonomous vehicle requires more than technology. It requires strong collaboration, operational expertise and a clear understanding of the environment in which the technology will be used,’ says Wilfrid Foo, CEO, Cycle & Carriage Group. ‘Together with SGL, we are taking a practical approach to testing how autonomous transport can work in commercial logistics and developing the solution responsibly.’
Testing autonomous transport in practice
The next step is a supervised road trial planned for Q4 2026. Once the trial arrangement has been approved by the authority, the remaining work focuses on fine-tuning the timing, execution, and operational processes for conducting the trial.
The vehicle will be tested on a specific route under supervised, autonomous conditions, supported by safety and remote-monitoring procedures. C&C’s Certified Safety Officer will monitor the vehicle throughout the trial and can intervene remotely when required.
The trial is expected to run for 3-6 months and will help to explore how autonomous transport could improve operational efficiency, consistency and service reliability, address ongoing labour shortages, and support lower-emission road transport.
‘For us, this is about understanding how autonomous transport can make a meaningful difference for our customers,’ says Allan Melgaard, Global CEO at Scan Global Logistics. ‘This initiative gives us the opportunity to put the technology into a real logistics environment, learn from the experience, and understand how it could become part of our future logistics solutions.’
The data and operational experience gathered during the trial will help determine the next stage in autonomous operation. If the trial progresses successfully, the longer-term ambition is to make more autonomous transport solutions available for different customers in Singapore.
The MOU was signed at Cycle & Carriage’s facility in Singapore on 21 September by Allan Melgaard, Global CEO of Scan Global Logistics and Wilfrid Foo, CEO of Cycle and Carriage Group, where the autonomous vehicle was also publicly unveiled.
