Click image to view it in full size

The promise of worker safety and productivity gains will drive the development of autonomous off-highway equipment in the medium-to-long term. Unmanned equipment’s ability to operate 24/7 without interference enables easier integration of technology into existing infrastructure and fleets, which will boost interest in this market.

Even though the COVID-19 pandemic has had a negative impact on off-highway equipment sales in the construction, mining, and agricultural spaces globally, it has pushed off-highway industry stakeholders to accelerate autonomous technology development. Mandates on employee health monitoring, social distancing, and contact tracing have increased demand for virtual solutions in manufacturing, operations, and services tied to off-highway equipment.

Preference for connected solutions that optimize equipment performance has increased the demand for both hardware (e.g., sensors) and software platforms, enabling virtual and augmented solutions in equipment manufacturing and operation. This has positioned OEMs and autonomous solution providers to develop applications targeting remote and autonomous operation.