Post by : Badri Ariffin

In a groundbreaking move for the logistics industry, South Korea has officially approved its inaugural paid autonomous freight service. This landmark decision enables RideFlux Inc., a local self-driving technology company, to commence commercial operations as announced by the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport.

Set to launch in June, RideFlux will begin its parcel delivery services utilizing an autonomous truck that can reach speeds of up to 90 km/h over a 112-kilometer corridor on the Jungbu Expressway.

This initiative is a collaborative venture with Lotte Global Logistics, which is anticipated to finalize a commercial freight agreement prior to the service's debut. The service will operate three times weekly during off-peak hours on weekdays to prioritize safety and operational efficiency.

For its pilot program, RideFlux will deploy a 25-ton Maxen truck manufactured by Tata Daewoo Mobility Co. The implementation will follow a staged safety protocol. Initially, a test driver will oversee operations while seated behind the wheel. In the next phase, set to begin next year, the driver will transition to the passenger seat, allowing for a greater degree of autonomy. Ultimately, the final phase will see the truck operating entirely without human oversight.

Officials emphasize that this approval marks a significant advancement in the realm of autonomous driving technology within logistics, demonstrating South Korea's dedication to fostering innovation and modernizing its transportation framework.

As this project unfolds, it is poised to facilitate broader acceptance of autonomous freight solutions, potentially reshaping the logistics sector both in South Korea and on a global scale.

#world news #Global News #Technology #World Update