P-CAL completes autonomous tractor trial at UK port

The North East Automotive Alliance (NEAA), Port of Tyne and autonomous driving developer Oxa have completed the Port-Connected and Automated Logistics (P-CAL) project, deploying a fully autonomous terminal tractor in a UK port. The work was funded under the UK’s Connected and Automated Mobility (CAM) Pathfinder programme.

The consortium tested an autonomous container transport system on a working quayside, including a secure mesh communications network, terminal operating system integration, real-time crane coordination, and a cybersecurity framework for remote operation.

The system was developed within a new Operational Design Domain for the port, covering traffic density, variable conditions and human interaction. The consortium said autonomous movements can be carried out safely in a controlled area, strengthening the case for wider deployment.

Partners alongside the lead trio included Nissan, Newcastle University, ANGOKA, Logisteed UK (formerly Vantec Europe) and Womble Bond Dickinson. P-CAL builds on earlier 5G CAL and V-CAL initiatives.

In a statement, Paul Newman, Founder and Chief Executive of Oxa, said: “Through the project, we’ve demonstrated that existing work vehicles can be turned into a digital workforce, completing autonomous container movements in a dynamic quayside environment.” Graeme Hardie, Operations Director at the Port of Tyne, added: “P-CAL has shown what’s possible when innovation is applied to real operational challenges.”

Source: Oxa