By Décio Costa |Translated by Jorge Meditsch

Volkswagen Caminhões e Ônibus begins to follow the trend toward autonomous drive solutions. The manufacturer from Resende, RJ, developed a truck with a technology that does not demand the driver’s interference when programmed to follow a harvesting machine in sugarcane plantations.

The project is similar to the one presented some years ago by competitors, such as Mercedes-Benz, Volvo and Scania. The VWCO model was developed based on the Constellation 31.280 8×4.

In a partnership with the customization company BMB and technology Raven, the manufacturer’s engineering created a model with high flotation tires, 3-meter wide track, georeferencing system and electronic intelligence to control speed and identify obstacles.

According to the brand, the truck follows the programmed trajectory within a 2.5-centimeter error margin, impossible to be achieved by human drivers. For the evaluation, the truck also carries cameras replacing the conventional rear mirrors for a 360º view and better night visibility.

“We have a learning curve ahead. In a next step, more artificial intelligence will enhance maneuver capacity”, tells Rodrigo Chaves, VWCO’s engineering vice-president. “For now, the project aims to develop a machine that can play the role of a tractor in harvest and a truck off-season.

The autonomous Constellation will be tested in real operation by the energy company Raízen in sugarcane fields in the state of São Paulo. The vehicle has a 42-ton TGW capacity, and its powertrain has a 280 cv MAN D08 engine and a 12-speed automated transmission.

Photograph: VWCO

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