UPS trials driverless electric 'shifters' at London hub

UPS has begun testing autonomous electric ‘shifters’ to move semi-trailers and containers at its advanced technology hub in London.

During the initial phase, UPS said it would operate the vehicles with drivers in the cab to evaluate efficiencies but later this year it would start autonomous driving operations.

The Gaussin electric vehicles have zero tailpipe emissions and include battery swap technology, which enables the shifters to be operated day and night as discharged batteries are immediately replaced with a fully charged one.

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“These tests are part of a major UPS effort to integrate electric vehicles throughout our global network,” said Juan Perez, UPS chief information and engineering officer.

“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.”