Innovative refrigerated logistics: automated logistics in the food industry

Innovative refrigerated logistics: the AURORA project as a pioneer

During the coronavirus pandemic, many companies tried to maintain their food logistics while minimizing or even completely avoiding contact between people. In some countries, such as Austria, this led to minor problems, while in other countries, such as China, entire supply chains collapsed. Outside major cities such as Shanghai, food was rotting, while in the city center there were massive shortages and a lack of supply for the population. For automated food logistics – especially refrigerated logistics – to function smoothly, every link in the process chain must be precisely analyzed and optimized. It is crucial that the vehicles are loaded correctly and that the removal of the products by the customer runs smoothly. The cold chain and energy management in the vehicle must also function perfectly, accompanied by seamless documentation.

General information on the AURORA - Automated Refrigerated Zero Emission Logistics Operations project

The AURORA – Automated Refrigerated Zero Emission Logistics Operations project aims to develop a safe and robust concept for refrigerated logistics that combines zero-emission technologies with autonomous driving functions. A refrigeration system is integrated into an autonomous vehicle and tested in various realistic scenarios. The AURORA project not only tests driving behavior (steering, braking, acceleration), but also the entire process chain. The first tests will take place in China in October, followed by further tests in Austria at the Digitrans Test Center for Automated Driving in St. Valentin. The vehicle will also be tested in rainy conditions to analyze its driving behavior in poor weather conditions. The tests will show how stable this technology works on Austrian roads and what availability can be achieved under such conditions.

In the course of the project, a vehicle based on Chinese technology, which is already more advanced than the models currently available in Europe, will be tested in Austria for the first time. The automation of the vehicle is based on artificial intelligence, the construction is cost-effective and there is no space for a safety driver.

Project goals

  • Minimizing obstacles to the electrification and automation of the (refrigeration-based) transport system
  • Enabling the use of automated, emission-free refrigerated logistics in logistics centers and on the road
  • Introducing true zero-emission refrigeration technologies in both Jiangsu Province and Austria, setting up twin digital simulation test scenarios of the two locations
  • Paving the way for autonomous deliveries that minimize freight costs, improve asset utilization, lower logistics costs and reduce energy consumption

Successful implementation of the project will result in a pilot solution that can be transferred to other logistics tasks in the food industry with minimal adjustments.
The cooperation between China and Austria in this project opens up valuable opportunities to combine the technological strengths of both countries and drive forward innovative solutions.

You might also be interested in

Further Insights

Do you have questions about the autonomous transportation of the future?

We advise you!

Project partner:

Further information:

  • Project duration: 2.5 years
  • Project start: July 2023
  • Funding body: FFG

Share: