VW is testing remote-controlled trucks in real-world traffic

The Volkswagen Group is advancing the digitalization of its plant logistics and, for the first time, has deployed a remote-controlled truck at its Kassel components plant—both on the plant grounds and on public roads. In collaboration with its technology partner MIRA GmbH, a subsidiary of Rheinmetall AG, and the logistics service provider L.I.T. Speditions GmbH, a terminal tractor successfully completed test runs under real-world conditions. This is the first project of its kind on public roads in Hesse.

The basis for this is the revised Road Traffic Remote Control Ordinance, which for the first time establishes a legal framework for remotely controlled vehicles outside of enclosed company premises. Volkswagen is thus one of the first industrial companies in the state to take advantage of these opportunities.

A MAFI T 230 terminal tractor was used. The vehicle was equipped with the MIRA teleoperation kit and a drive-by-wire system and was controlled entirely via cellular communication from a control center at the Kassel plant. The test route ran along both plant roads and public roads.

With this pilot project, Volkswagen aims to evaluate the technology under real-world conditions. The results are expected to show whether remote-controlled shuttle services can be permanently integrated into plant logistics and scaled to other Group locations. Furthermore, the technology opens up new possibilities for an inclusive workplace. In the future, accessible control centers could enable people with physical disabilities to work safely as vehicle operators.