M1, Continental Automotive and JTC trial 5G mobile robot operations

M1, Continental Automotive Singapore (Continental) and JTC have announced a collaboration to conduct 5G standalone (SA) trials for autonomous mobile robots (AMRs) operations. This trial is supported by the Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA), which is focused on supporting and nurturing the growth of 5G use cases in Singapore.

Source: Continental. The Corriere LM last-mile delivery robot.

The joint partnership will explore the operations of 5G-enabled AMRs in a live environment based on newly-developed network and infrastructure solutions for consumers, as well as enhance construction safety using analytics. The three organisations will create the infrastructure and deep-dive into the operations of AMRs for last-mile delivery of goods and food to support the burgeoning growth of e-commerce and drive Singapore’s progress as a global innovation hub for connected mobility.

M1 will take on project management to implement the 5G SA network infrastructure for AMR operations. The company will focus on the network architecture and planning. Continental will deploy Corriere LM, its last-mile delivery robot, to demonstrate its technology for driverless mobility systems. JTC will provide the trial spaces and facilitate discussions with tenants and operators on potential user trials.

The trials will be carried out in the 600-hectare Jurong Innovation District (JID), at locations such as the Centre of Excellence for Testing and Research of Autonomous Vehicles (CETRAN), JTC developments in CleanTech Park, and construction projects in the district. JTC will also assess the trial performance to further enhance the infrastructure for safe operations of the AMRs as well as construction safety at JTC sites, using video analytics for detection of safety violations and provision of real-time alerts.

“We are very pleased to work closely with Continental and JTC to demonstrate the extensive capabilities of the 5G SA network, which is going to be the real game-changer for 5G. M1 is at the forefront of deploying 5G SA network for real-world solutions, supported by M1’s low-latency, responsive, secured and high-throughput mobile 5G SA connectivity, which are essential for the operation of AMRs and other autonomous vehicles. The possibilities are endless with 5G, and with the support of IMDA, we are taking another step forward in driving Singapore's Smart Nation ambitions,” said Willis Sim, Chief Corporate Sales and Solutions Officer, M1.

“The collaboration will allow Continental to deploy our robot concept, Corriere LM, for future autonomous last-mile delivery transport. It will benefit from our world-class expertise in autonomous vehicle technology. 5G will essentially enable the safe and reliable execution of AMRs, allowing us to facilitate trials to prepare for future real-life deployments. With the help of robot delivery, Continental is ready to accelerate Singapore’s Smart Nation journey, through our vision for seamless mobility right to your doorstep,” added Kien Foh Lo, President & CEO of Continental Automotive Singapore.

“Jurong Innovation District is Singapore’s largest living lab for new manufacturing and logistics technology and solutions. Riding on the wave of digital transformation, technology providers and manufacturers are seeking to develop and test-bed use cases that demonstrate how 5G can be deployed to enhance operations and drive further innovation. Complemented by our ready ecosystem of partners and infrastructure in JID, this trial will help to bring new innovations to market faster,” said Finn Tay, Director of New Estates Division 1, JTC.

“As the architects of Singapore’s digital future, IMDA will continue to invest in the development of a secure and resilient 5G communications network and ecosystem, so as to bring about exciting opportunities for individuals, workers and businesses. We welcome more industry partners to join us in co-creating new possibilities in Singapore’s 5G journey,” said Liau Eng Soon, Cluster Director, Trade and Connectivity, IMDA.

M1, a subsidiary of Keppel Corporation, is Singapore’s first digital network operator. It provides a suite of communications services, including mobile, fixed line and fibre offerings, to over 2 million customers. The company has been involved in multivendor 5G trials since 2018. Another recent 5G collaboration was a partnership with the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore and Airbus for coastal 5G SA network trials at the Singapore Maritime Drone Estate for unmanned aerial vehicles. M1 also partnered PSA Corporation to explore 5G-enabled innovative Smart Port use cases such as tele-remote controlled equipment and automated guided vehicles.

Continental develops pioneering technologies and services for sustainable and connected mobility of people and their goods. In 2021, the company celebrates its 150th anniversary.