Airside gains exclusive insights into Auto-Cargo – a new autonomous vehicle that Aurrigo promises is “set to transform airside logistics”
In April this year, Aurrigo unveiled its latest addition to a growing portfolio of autonomous ground support equipment.
Auto-Cargo marks the UK manufacturer’s first venture into air cargo handling equipment.
Aurrigo’s newest innovation is a battery-powered, zero-emission autonomous vehicle that is designed to carry a standard cargo pallet or two unit load devices (ULDs).
It has a maximum payload of 16,500kg (4,500kg onboard capacity and the option of towing an additional 12,000kg trailer).
The company’s largest vehicle for the aviation industry to date, Aurrigo says Auto-Cargo is “set to transform airside logistics”.
Auto-Cargo’s other features include twin 18.4kW electric motors and four-wheel steer and drive.
Aurrigo claims this latest innovation will enhance safety, optimise operational performance and reduce stress on ground handling teams.
Tenille Houston, vice president of public relations and communications at Aurrigo, tells Airside: “Auto-Cargo is Aurrigo’s first autonomous vehicle designed specifically for air cargo handling.
“It combines self-driving capabilities with smart cargo handling, reducing manual tasks and streamlining turnaround times considerably.
“With precision automation, advanced obstacle detection and real-time fleet co-ordination through Auto-Connect [Aurrigo’s digital fleet management platform], the vehicle is promising to reduce stress on workers, enhance safety and optimise on-the-ground performance.
“It’s built for durability and seamless cargo handling,” says Houston.
The business case for Auto-Cargo emerged through Aurrigo’s partnerships with industry stakeholders, who Houston says highlighted the need for smarter, more agile and scalable solutions in cargo handling.
“Airports and cargo operators are under increasing pressure to optimise throughput and reduce emissions – Auto-Cargo is designed to meet that need,” she says.
The first unit has been deployed at East Midlands Airport by UPS, where it will support the company’s cargo handling operations.
Houston says UPS played a “crucial role” in the development of the vehicle.
“As a key development partner, UPS provided real-world operational insight, access to test environments and practical feedback that shaped the vehicle’s design and use cases,” she explains.
“Their involvement ensured that the system met the stringent requirements of a global logistics provider, and that it could seamlessly integrate with existing ground operations.
“This collaboration helped accelerate development and gave us a clear line of sight into the operational needs of the air cargo sector.
As Aurrigo’s first vehicle designed specifically for cargo operations, Auto-Cargo lays the foundation for a “broader roadmap” of innovations to come.
The manufacturer is already looking into how to develop the vehicle further.
“We will work with our customers on opportunities to expand the Auto-Cargo platform with additional capabilities.
“Our long-term vision includes a connected ecosystem of autonomous vehicles and smart infrastructure to transform cargo movement, end to end.”
Auto-Cargo optimises efficiency by automating repetitive and time-sensitive tasks, such as towing pallets and ULDs across the ramp, says Houston, adding that this reduces turnaround times and enables 24/7 operation.
“By taking on physically demanding and high-pressure roles, Auto-Cargo relieves pressure on handlers, especially during peak periods or in locations struggling with labour shortages.
“This allows ground crews to focus on tasks that require human oversight and decision-making.”
Houston continues: “From a safety perspective, Auto-Cargo uses various sensors around the vehicle to safely navigate the airside environment, precisely following all ‘rules of the road’ which reduces the likelihood of incidents.
“Airside operations have long relied on legacy systems and manual processes that haven’t evolved at the same pace as aircraft or terminal technologies.
“Auto-Cargo is set to disrupt that by introducing automation to a space that is ripe for innovation.”
Houston says Auto-Cargo’s deployment will enable a shift towards more predictable, data-driven and scalable airside logistics.
She adds that, when used as part of a connected fleet, Auto-Cargo offers a real-time view of cargo movements and vehicle utilisation – which can enhance decision-making and operational control for ground handlers, airlines and airports.
Since unveiling Auto-Cargo in April, Aurrigo has seen “strong interest” from airports and cargo operators around the world, according to Houston.
She says: “It’s clear the market is actively looking for solutions that improve resilience and efficiency in airside cargo operations…
“Based on the strong interest we’ve received from major cargo operators and airports globally, we believe the Auto-Cargo is well positioned to be very well received by the market.”
