Automated Terminal Truck Pilot Update

The expansion plans of APM Terminals Maasvlakte II are becoming more tangible with every step, to realize this innovative challenge we also need your cooperation.

Currently the rail terminal is connected to the automated area. As part of the expansion this automated area will be replaced by additional truck handling. A new important part of the expansion is the Automated Terminal Truck (ATT). The existing rail terminal will be further automated and the L-AGV’s that currently transfer in this area will be replaced by ATT’s, after good test results. The ATT will allow the continuation of automated container handling between the rail terminal and the stack. The existing fenced work areas will disappear, allowing manual truck traffic to move freely and safely in this area.

From January till April 2024, tests will be carried out with two ATT’s. The first tests will be executed without any external traffic. The terminal will be closed now and then in this phase. These moments are carefully planned, taken into account the historical pick up and drop off patterns. We do everything we can to keep the inconvenience as limited as possible. Later, the ATT’s will move between the regular truck traffic. ATT’s are equipped with various additional sensors to enable independent driving in a mixed traffic environment. The vehicles are suitable for driving without a driver but will always drive with a test engineer during the pilot.

During the pilot information is collected about the working method and safety of the vehicle. Truck drivers are expected not to react any differently than in the current situation. It can happen that an ATT is driving a little slower or is busy maneuvering at the landside stacks. We would like to ask you not to do anything unexpected, do not overtake the vehicle and provide some space for the vehicle.

The next step in the process is to carry out various test setups. A plan is currently being made for this. The ATT pilot team works closely with our technical department for this.