Blanc Robot: Suzuki and Applied EV show autonomous electric transporter
The autonomous logistics vehicle Blanc Robot uses the chassis of the Suzuki Jimny. Applied EV contributes autonomous electric driving technology.
The Blanc Robot from Suzuki and Applied EV with open transport area without superstructure.
(Image: Applied EV)
The vehicle manufacturer Suzuki and the specialist for autonomous vehicle platforms Applied EV are jointly presenting a platform for an autonomous electric transport vehicle called Blanc Robot at the CES. The electrically powered vehicle platform can be fitted with various superstructures for different transportation applications. The vehicle does not have a driver's cab. It can only be operated autonomously.
Blanc Robot is just over four meters long, 1.62 m wide and around 0.9 m high in the unloaded version without a tailor-made transport body. Suzuki contributed the extended version of the Suzuki Jimny to the joint project. This is intended to keep production costs low and enable larger quantities to be manufactured more quickly. The platform can be fitted with specially manufactured bodies for the respective transport purpose –, for example open or closed bodies. Suzuki supplies all the body parts for this. Equipped in this way, the vehicle should be able to carry loads of up to one ton in total weight.
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The vehicle is electrically powered and drives exclusively autonomously. This should be possible at speeds of up to 80 km/h. A cabin for an operator who could intervene in emergencies is not planned. Applied EV is providing the necessary software and electronics.
Tackling the driver shortage
Suzuki and Applied EV want to use the Blanc Robot to tackle the problem of the global shortage of drivers in last-mile logistics. The vehicle is also to be used in industry, where the same boring, dirty and dangerous journeys have to be carried out over and over again, for which no human drivers can be found. The two companies also believe that the Blanc Robot can be used for significantly longer periods of time. For example, the vehicle can be in use three times longer than a van driven by a human.
Suzuki and Applied EV have already built 100 Blanc Robots. They are currently on their way to Australia. Depending on demand, production could be increased to several tens of thousands per year.
Heise Medien is the official media partner of CES 2025.
(olb)
