V-CAL
This project builds on the 5GCAL project – the first automated 40-tonne logistics service in the UK, delivering parts between Vantec and Nissan Motor Manufacturing. The V-CAL project will scale up, electrify, and extend the service to build scale, reliability, and consistency of operation to unlock the enormous potential of Connected & Automated Logistics (CAL) services to improve the productivity and efficiency of manufacturing supply chains and help grow the UK economy.
About the project
It is recognised that the first commercial opportunities for Connected and Autonomous Logistics (CAL) technologies are in controlled environments such as ports, airports, distribution centres and ‘campus’ style manufacturing sites. Demonstrating CAL in contained areas is crucial to expanding use across other scenarios.
Building upon the DCMS funded 5G CAL proof-of-concept (2020-22) – the first automated 40-tonne logistics service in the UK, delivering parts between Vantec and Nissan Motor Manufacturing UK – project V-CAL seeks to scale and expand deployment into actual operational conditions and on alternative, more complex routes, which build scale, reliability, and consistency of operation.
Overcoming challenges of scale and more complex routes will allow the project to showcase its key objectives in proving safe, reliable, and robust systems across multiple use cases, minimising the need for human intervention, and delivering on time every time.
This project has the potential to unlock the enormous potential for CAL services driving significant UK growth in this emerging, high-potential field.
Watch: IET interview with V-CAL
The Institute of Engineering and Technology (IET) interview the V-Cal team about the mission, objectives, and future plans for the project.
Hear about what makes this project unique, how it helps move the industry forward, and why the funding is so important.
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