DriveU.auto provides an Autonomous Terminal Tractor Retrofit Kit that converts existing diesel or electric terminal tractors into fully autonomous vehicles for container ports. The solution adds sensors, compute hardware, and a GPS‑independent localization system to enable continuous, eyes‑off operation, obstacle detection, safe overtaking, and remote‑pilot supervision without requiring new infrastructure, helping terminal operators boost productivity and improve worker safety.
Funding
$4.6M raised to dateRaised to date based on public sources. This may differ from the amount the company actually raised and is based only on what is publicly available on the internet.
ZZFounders
Product
Problem
Container terminals rely on diesel or electric terminal tractors that must be driven manually, creating bottlenecks in horizontal transport, limiting 24/7 operation, and exposing workers to safety risks.
Solution
DriveU.auto offers an Autonomous Terminal Tractor (ATT) Retrofit Kit that converts existing terminal tractors into fully autonomous vehicles. The kit adds sensors, compute units, and a GPS‑independent localization system to enable “eyes‑off” driving, obstacle detection, safe overtaking, and intelligent queuing in mixed‑traffic environments. Autonomy operates continuously, while a remote‑control interface lets a single pilot supervise up to eight tractors for edge‑case handling. An independent safety “cocoon” overrides both autonomous and remote commands to prevent collisions. The solution requires no new infrastructure, works with both combustion‑engine and electric tractors, and delivers a rapid ROI—typically under two years—through incremental fleet upgrades.
Target Audience
Primary customers are container terminal operators and port authorities seeking to increase horizontal transport capacity, extend operating hours, and improve worker safety without replacing their existing tractor fleet.
Features
- Sensor and compute retrofit package compatible with legacy diesel or electric terminal tractors
- GPS‑independent high‑accuracy localization for reliable positioning in port environments
- Full autonomous driving capabilities: obstacle detection, safe overtaking, intersection crossing, and queuing
- Remote‑pilot supervision platform allowing one operator to manage up to eight tractors simultaneously
- Independent safety “cocoon” that can intervene and brake regardless of autonomous or remote commands
- Seamless operation in mixed traffic without any dedicated infrastructure upgrades
- Scalable deployment model supporting gradual fleet conversion and night‑shift pilot projects