UPS has taken delivery of Gaussin electric vehicles and will begin autonomous driving operations later this year.
The shifters, as they are known in the logistics industry, move semi-trailers and containers at UPS’s London hub.
Initially drivers will stay in the cab to evaluate vehicle operations, but autonomous driving tests will begin later this year.
Gaussin electric vehicles have numerous cameras, sensors and algorithms to improve safety, with the technologies improving efficiency and safety of operations.
Juan Perez, chief information and engineering officer of UPS, said, “Gaussin’s shifters will help cut our fuel costs and reduce emissions. We’re also eager to test the shifters in autonomous driving mode. This is a great opportunity for us to evaluate technologies on our own property.”
Carlton Rose, UPS president of global fleet maintenance and engineering, said, “We continue to pursue and deploy the latest vehicle technology that has the potential to enhance our operational efficiency, while taking an evolving approach in implementing autonomous vehicle technologies.”