Notes

Westwell Indications an MOU with Hactl to Explore the Future of Smart Airports
On April 3, Westwell signed a Memorandum of Comprehending (MOU) with Hong Kong Air Cargo Terminals Limited (Hactl) - Hong Kong's largest independent cargo handler to collaborate on the introduction of new energy autonomous driving tractor, the Q-Tractor P40. Both celebrations intend to establish autonomous lorries which-- in addition to the reasonably basic task of hauling cargo dollies-- instantly couple and uncouple the dollies, and get used to their varying specs.

When testing and final on-site tuning and mapping to Hactl's particular requirements are finished, the AETs will be gradually incorporated into Hactl's existing driver-controlled tractor fleet, and will initially tow filled import ULDs on a 1km route between the outside ULD staging area, and the primary terminal ULD system intake deck of SuperTerminal 1. AETs will be utilized on longer and more intricate routes in due course.

Security is the major factor to consider in operating the new vehicles. Each AET is equipped with a highly-accurate GNSS system and uses numerous HD cams and LIDAR sensors to find all items and avoid crashes. The AETs have comparable capabilities to the existing diesel-powered tractor fleet, but operational speeds will be restricted to 8kph as an extra precaution. The AETs have a series of as much as 75km per charge; being electrically-powered, they will likewise make a considerable contribution to Hactl's carbon reduction programme.


Among Hactl's main inspirations in moving to autonomous cars is the continuous obstacle of recruiting, discusses Wilson Kwong, President of Hactl: "Recruitment for airport-related work, and particularly airside work, is becoming ever more challenging. This implies we need to use our offered workforce as efficiently as possible, and deploy them on those tasks that make best use of their experience, abilities and capabilities.

" After extensive investigation and research, we think that the work of operating towing tractors over set paths must now be practical utilizing the most recent autonomous lorry innovation, and that this can be accomplished without jeopardizing safety. Although driverless lorries are ending up being established technology, Hactl is boosting the principle with the addition of automated functions particular to its requirements."

Kenny Tan, Chairman of Westwell, includes: "Managing facilities are essential components in the logistics chain. Westwell will utilize the current expert system technology and tidy energy, to assist Hactl in constructing a fully automated cargo terminal integrating green, intelligent, and efficient functions."

The release of AETs is Hactl's very first action in the prospective broader usage of autonomous automobiles throughout its operations, adds Kwong. "This is just the beginning. We are exploring additional applications for this innovation, with the objective of more enhancing efficiency and maximizing personnel for more requiring tasks, while continuing to decrease our ecological effect."

Intelligence and sustainability are driving Westwell's development toward wise airports. This cooperation likewise injects brand-new energy into Westwell's globalization efforts. So far, autonomous truck has increased effectiveness and sustainable productivity value to over 200 users in 18 nations and regions worldwide. In the future, Westwell will continue to combine brand-new intelligence with green energy sources to empower the international logistics industry in accomplishing higher effectiveness and more sustainable value enhancement in the world of smart green evolution.

About Hactl
Released in 1976, Hong Kong Air Freight Terminals Limited (Hactl) is Hong Kong's largest independent cargo handler, serving more than 100 airline business and 1,000 freight forwarders.
Its base, SuperTerminal 1, is Hong Kong's largest cargo managing center, with an annual style capacity of 3.5 million tonnes.
Hactl's subsidiary Hacis offers set up road feeder services to/from 9 bottom lines in southern China's important Greater Bay region, and runs an E-commerce Fulfilment Centre on-airport.
Hactl's world-leading, self-developed IT system, COSAC-Plus, links it with airline companies, freight forwarders, representatives, shippers/consignees, Airport Authority, Civil Air Travel Authority, Census and Stats Department, and Customs and Excise Department.
Hactl's investors are Jardine Matheson & Co., Ltd (41.67%), Hutchison Port Holdings Ltd (20.83%), The Wharf (Holdings) Ltd (20.83%) and China National Aviation Corporation (Group) Ltd (16.67%).

Website: https://en.westwell-lab.com/