Sweden-based freight mobility company Einride has introduced the next generation of its autonomous Pod.
The electric freight vehicle is designed to be more aerodynamic and functional, according to a news release. Its rounded edges give it a more aerodynamic shape without compromising cargo capacity. High-performance lighting has been integrated into the vehicle’s front feature, while rear lights are now the entire height of the cargo bay for maximum visibility for other road users, improving safety.
The Pod, which is being tested and operated at customer sites in Sweden, doesn’t have a driver’s compartment, which means the company had to develop a proprietary method for describing use cases for Autonomous Electric Transport (AET).
“The Pod is a completely novel vehicle, and therefore doesn’t fit into existing standards, even for cutting-edge technologies like autonomy,” Einride CTO Pär Degerman said, according to the release. “We created the AET classification system based on use cases for a driverless, electric freight vehicle. With this approach, we are able to develop and scale our capabilities in the most common and appropriate use cases for freight, with the ultimate goal of automating as much of the transport network as possible.”
The AET classification system ranges from levels 1 to 5. AET 1 (Fenced) is best for closed facilities with predetermined routes, while AET 2 (Nearby) is suited for closed facilities but also has the ability to travel on public roads over short distances between destinations. Both are available for reservation now and will begin shipping next year.
AET 3 (Rural) allows for operation on backroads and less busy main roads between facilities at a maximum operating speed of 45 km/h. AET 4 (Highway) allows for fully autonomous operation on freeways and other major roads at up to 85 km/h. Both are available for pre-order with shipping in 2022-2023.
