The BMW Group factory in Dingolfing has adopted the EZTow to automate towing operations for PHS-hardened sheet metal parts in outdoor manufacturing areas. The EZTow seamlessly integrates into the existing traffic system at the BMW site.

The tractor can handle up to 14 tons of traction, featuring three trailers with a combined length of over 16 meters and an automated speed of 10 km/h. Its advanced navigation system utilizes GPS satellite navigation and lidar technology to create a 3D map of the surroundings.

At the Daimler AG truck assembly plant in Wörth, Germany, the autonomous tow tractor transports production parts outdoors cost-efficiently, safely and sustainably. The EZTow transports the parts and material from the storage area to the assembly line and operates outdoors.

This is a major step forward for the industry as conventional AGVs (Automated Guided Vehicles) are tied to indoor operations. At the Wörth site, the tow tractor operates at 10 km/h and tows up to 14 tons.

Narita International Airport in Japan has deployed the EZTow in partnership with the Narita International Airport Corporation , Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism. The driverless vehicles have been transporting baggage between two stations, located in a terminal and its satellite, with only remote supervision. The airport has not required any infrastructure modifications to accommodate the trips.

The goal is to promote the use of AVs to improve productivity, allocating staff to where they are most needed on the ramp. The long-term goal for JAL is to focus the workforce on value-added work and increase the number of autonomous baggage tractors to handle repetitive tasks involving long-distance travel.

TractEasy’s EZTow autonomous tow tractor has been operating completely autonomously at Level 4 of autonomous driving at this airport. The vehicles follows routes from aircraft landing positions to the baggage hall.

It mixes with conventional vehicles as well as pedestrians while safely crossing outdoors/indoors. It also runs in various conditions, including rain, fog, and snow, while addressing labor shortages and efficiency needs.

The EZTow autonomous tractor equipped with advanced technology such as lidar sensors, high-definition cameras, GPS, 4G, and wi-fi connectivity transports up to four unit loading devices from the baggage handling area to the aircraft bay at Changi. Currently, three autonomous tractors are being used, aiming to enhance airside operations and allow airport staff to focus on higher value-added tasks.

This aligns with Changi Airport Group’s vision of an airport for the future, where autonomous vehicles support workers in their roles.