Suzuki, Applied AV Unveil Autonomous Logistics Vehicle

Australian company Applied EV and Japanese automaker Suzuki have revealed a radical new autonomous vehicle (AV) with no cabin.

The Blanc Robot is essentially a “table top” chassis that can be configured for a number of different applications, and is the result of a collaboration that was initially agreed in 2021 and confirmed in April 2023 when the pair signed a Memorandum of Understanding.

Credit: Applied EV

The pair say they envisage the Blanc Robot being used for last-mile deliveries or in industrial roles, where the tasks may be considered too “dull, dirty, difficult or dangerous” for a human driver.

As the images released to accompany the unveiling show, there are multiple options that can sit on top of the chassis, underlining the AV’s versatility.

Additionally, it is claimed that the Blanc Robot can operate for up to three times longer than a comparable human-driven vehicle, bringing significant cost savings as well as reduced carbon emissions on account of its electric powertrain.

The efficiencies also extend to its manufacture, with the AV based on an existing platform – that of Suzuki’s long-wheelbase Jimny utilitarian 4x4 – meaning reduced costs, and the potential for high-volume production.

Melbourne-based Applied AV is then responsible for the assembly and integration of the safety rated software and hardware that delivers its functionality. This includes the firm’s Drive API (autonomous and AI driving software), App Space API (non-driving vehicle functions) and Cloud API, which covers secure data and diagnostics for third party applications.

Related:Suzuki to Develop Autonomous Electric Vehicle Platform

Already 100 Blanc Robots are set to be assembled, with the body structures having been shipped to Australia from Japan.

Applied AV CEO Julian Broadbent hailed the vehicle’s debut, saying: “The demand for autonomous vehicle fleets that integrate seamlessly into both emerging logistics companies and established enterprises has never been stronger. While transportation businesses are eager to adopt cutting-edge technologies, they require complete, real and actual ‘solutions’ to drive meaningful implementation at scale. 

“Applied EV, in collaboration with our partners, has addressed this challenge with a turnkey solution. Powered by software, our vehicles come in a range of sizes and can be tailored for unique autonomous driving applications. The Blanc Robot marks the first purpose-built autonomous vehicle released for scale.”

Credit: Applied EV

Suzuki, which took a major stake in Applied AV in 2021, has recently intensified its interest in autonomous solutions. In June it agreed a $50 million deal with Nagoya start-up TIER IV to make self-driving micro cars, and it has also invested in California’s Glydways, which develops Personal Rapid Transport vehicles which travel in dedicated lanes.

Related:Suzuki to Develop Self-Driving Micro Cars in $50M Partnership