Fully autonomous terminal tractor successfully deployed in live port environment as part of P-CAL automated logistics programme.
The busy Port of Tyne welcomed an unusal new dockside worker recently – a self-driving terminal tractor. It was being tested as part of the Port-Connected Automated Logistics project, or P-CAL, delivered through the government’s connected and automated mobility (CAM) pathfinder initiative by the North East Automotive Alliance (NEAA) in partnership with the Port of Tyne, Oxa, and a consortium of leading industry and academic partners.
P-CAL autonomous terminal tractor at the Port of Tyne, photo courtesy of Oxa.
P-CAL aimed to advance previous 5G CAL and V-CAL projects by moving autonomous technology from proof‑of‑concept trials into a complex, safety‑critical, real‑world operational setting, with the system deployed and validated within the live port environment – where traffic density, variable conditions and human interaction present unique challenges.
The project involved the deployment of a fully autonomous terminal tractor supported by a secure, resilient mesh communication network, the capability to integrate with terminal operating systems, real‑time coordination with live crane movements, and the implementation of a robust cybersecurity framework to enable safe, remote and automated operations.
NEAA led a regional and national partnership comprising the Port of Tyne, Oxa, Nissan, Newcastle University, ANGOKA, LOGISTEED UK Limited (formerly Vantec Europe Limited) and Womble Bond Dickinson.
The successful P‑CAL project demonstrated that autonomous movements can be carried out safely and reliably in a controlled area of the port. It strengthens the case for a much larger deployment, and demonstrates the expertise in CAM developed in the North East.
The next phase of the project will examine how the system performs across broader port operations, including the added pressures of multiple vehicles working alongside people, equipment and live commercial activity.
Paul Butler, CEO of NEAA, says: ‘P‑CAL represents a defining moment in the North East’s journey from pilot projects to real‑world autonomous operations. This project has demonstrated not only technical capability, but the strength of collaboration across industry, academia and government. The learning gained here will shape future CAM deployment and reinforces the region’s position as a national leader in connected and automated mobility.’
Graeme Hardie, Operations Director at the Port of Tyne, adds: ‘Delivering autonomous logistics in a live port environment has been a major step forward for the sector. P‑CAL has shown what’s possible when innovation is applied to real operational challenges, improving safety, efficiency and sustainability. The Port of Tyne is proud to have played a leading role in a project that will influence how ports across the UK and beyond approach automation.’
Paul Newman, Founder and CEO of Oxa, says: ‘The success of P-CAL proves how autonomy will enable the future of resilient logistics operations. Through the project, we’ve demonstrated that existing work vehicles can be turned into a digital workforce – successfully completing autonomous container movements in a dynamic quayside environment, while providing worksite intelligence necessary for real-time industrial optimisation. P-CAL provides a blueprint for how ports and industrial hubs worldwide can deploy autonomous technology to drive productivity, efficiency and safety.’
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