Port of Antwerp-Bruges is preparing to launch the first commercial autonomous truck project this fall. This truck, equipped with the autonomous technology from Inceptio Technology, will transport containerized cargo around the clock between the GTS Group warehouse in Kallo and the container terminals at the right bank. This project aims to evaluate how to permanently integrate autonomous trucks into logistics operations and to develop this technology on a larger scale.
Development of Autonomous Technology in the Port of Antwerp
At the first edition of a meeting called the "Autonomous Summit" held in 2025, a heavy autonomous vehicle was showcased for the first time on public roads in the Antwerp port area. Now, with the second edition of this meeting taking place, Port of Antwerp-Bruges is looking to expand and scale autonomous technologies in port environments. This meeting will include various demonstrations and tests, including a remote-controlled train from OTIV, a remote-controlled navigation vessel from Seafar, and autonomous trucks from Zelostech, DAF, and Volvo.
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Development of the Autonomous Ecosystem in the Port
Port of Antwerp-Bruges, as a platform for developing sustainable autonomous technologies in the port, will host innovative technologies during the "Future Port" week, which will take place from September 15 to 17 in Antwerp and Rotterdam. In this event, technology companies, port and logistics operators, policymakers, research organizations, and startups will come together to advance sustainable and autonomous technologies. The main goal of this event is to accelerate the implementation and enhance Europe's competitiveness in autonomous logistics.
Belgian Federal Minister of Transport, Jean-Luc Crucke, highlighted the importance of this technology in improving safety and efficiency in logistics chains and emphasized the need for a clear legal framework. Additionally, Flanders' Minister of Transport, Annick De Ridder, stressed the government's efforts to develop safe and efficient regulations and testing environments.
Johan Klaps, a member of the Antwerp City Council and President of Port of Antwerp-Bruges, announced that the port aims to become a place where innovations are tested and developed. With this initiative, Port of Antwerp-Bruges can be recognized as one of the pioneers of autonomous technologies in Europe.
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