Honda’s Latest Autonomous Robot Will Help Speed Things Up On Construction Sites

If you were impressed by the Autonomous Work Vehicle (AWV) Honda showcased over a year ago, which worked to set up a 1,000-acre solar farm in New Mexico, you might be doubly astounded by the company’s latest robot.

The firm, which recently unveiled its third-generation AWV, claims its newest iteration will help to improve the construction industry and speed up activities at worksites. While only the guests at the CONEXPO 2023 in Las Vegas will see it in the flesh, here’s a sneak peek for now.

According to a statement, the new robot boasts better capabilities than its predecessor, including two times the original bed size, greater loading capacity of 2,000 pounds, improved navigation with LiDAR sensors, a simplified interface, and higher speeds of up to 10 miles per hour.

That’s not all. The third-generation version comes with a larger battery size, operating up to 10 hours at a time, an improved avoidance function to avoid other vehicles on the road, and a lower bed so it’s easier for workers to load and unload goods from the vehicle.

In fact, Honda even boasts that its field tests of the robot have been so successful, it was able to transport and drop off construction materials and supplies at precise points along a pre-set route, saving employees the trouble of having to make multiple trips to different worksites.

As Jalopnik noted, the “face” of the vehicle has changed. While the second-generation robot was fitted with larger “eyes” (headlights), it often gave off an impression that it was grimacing. Whereas, the new version appears cuter and more docile like it’s always happy to help.

“We believe the Honda AWV can be a valuable solution to supporting construction teams while also enhancing worksite efficiencies and safety,” explained Jason VanBuren, Systems Engineering Manager at American Honda Motor Co.

“Leveraging Honda’s decades of experience developing reliable, safe, and clean mobility technology, we aim to address issues such as labor shortages and improved environmental performance,” he added.

ホンダ、自動運転EV作業車「Autonomous Work Vehicle」の3代目プロトタイプ公開 https://t.co/KsCQnHvzcf #honda #AWV #ホンダ #EV作業車 pic.twitter.com/xJVgaakMGG

— Car Watch (@car_watch) March 7, 2023

[via Jalopnik and Engadget, cover image via Honda / PR Newswire]