Airbus is taking an unconventional approach to improving airport safety. They've unveiled a head-turning research project: an electric truck outfitted with an A350 airliner cockpit. This unusual hybrid aims to demonstrate the potential of automated taxiing systems for airplanes. The growing number of ground collisions between jetliners has spurred Airbus to explore innovative solutions. Their solution comes in the form of this specially converted electric truck.
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While it can be driven conventionally, the real intrigue lies in its ability to cede control to the aircraft systems. Sensors onboard the truck constantly monitor its surroundings, keeping track of painted lines and potential obstacles. Using this data, the onboard computers can then autonomously guide the vehicle to its designated parking spot, complete with smooth acceleration and braking.
This "plane truck" is a collaborative effort between Airbus UpNext, the company's innovation arm, and Ree Automotive, an Israeli electric vehicle manufacturer. The project, dubbed "Optimate," has a three-year timeline. After initial testing, the truck is slated to be put through its paces in real-world airport environments. If successful, these trials could pave the way for even more extensive testing on actual A350-1000 aircraft.
While the potential benefits of automated taxiing are clear, there are hurdles to overcome. Implementing such a significant change would likely necessitate modifications to airplane design. Additionally, the aviation industry is known for its rigorous certification processes, and gaining approval for this novel system could be a complex undertaking. Despite these challenges, Airbus' bold experiment represents a significant step towards a future with safer and more efficient airport operations. The success of the "Optimate" project could not only reshape the way airplanes taxi but also lead to advancements in automation across the aviation industry.