Autonomous vehicle trials expand with industrial AGVs in Germany and shuttle bus in Netherlands

Actemium Handling Solutions has begun testing its first of five Outdoor Automated Guided Vehicles (AGVs) in Essen, Germany. The industrial transport vehicles are designed to move heavy materials, such as pallets and machinery, without a driver. To ensure the technology can handle real-world challenges like sunlight, rain, and varying road surfaces, the company is conducting trials in the Duiventorenstraat with cooperation from the municipality of Essen.

In the Netherlands, the Efteling theme park has launched an eight-week pilot program featuring a self-driving shuttle bus. Developed by Dutch Automated Mobility in collaboration with Arriva and local authorities, the free service connects the park's main bus stop to various accommodations, including the Efteling Wonder Hotel and Bosrijk. While the bus operates autonomously on both public roads and private property, a safety driver remains on board to intervene if necessary. The trial aims to gather data from guests and employees to determine the feasibility of future implementation.