Companies and researchers evaluate vehicles and systems at Ford Proving Ground
LOMMEL – The first CCAM Proving Region test week is taking place this week at Ford Lommel Proving Ground. Companies, research institutions and public authorities from Flanders and the Netherlands are evaluating new systems for autonomous vehicles.
These include smart sensors, specialised autonomous vehicle solutions and vehicles that can be operated remotely. The systems are being tested under conditions that closely resemble real-life situations. The aim is to assess whether they can operate safely with a supervisor present and whether additional steps are needed before they can undergo further testing on public roads in real-world use cases.
Step Towards Public Roads
New technology for autonomous vehicles is currently usually developed first on closed test sites. The transition to public roads requires additional research, safety checks and a clear regulatory framework. During the test week, attention is therefore not only focused on the performance of the systems themselves. Safety, regulations and the procedures required for future permits are also being addressed. The results are intended to help companies, researchers and public authorities better assess how autonomous vehicles can be deployed in the future.
The test week is also intended to contribute to confidence in new forms of autonomous mobility. By demonstrating technology in realistic conditions, policymakers and other stakeholders gain a better understanding of its possibilities and limitations.
From Sensors to Remotely Operated Vehicles
Several companies and research institutions are showcasing their latest developments during the test week. Aidoptation is demonstrating its solution for autonomous driving on highways. These systems are designed to help vehicles respond safely to complex traffic situations and unexpected obstacles at high speeds. FERO, Movias, V-Tron and Orange are demonstrating how specialised trucks can be operated remotely. Their technology is being used here in crash attenuator vehicles deployed at roadworks to better protect road workers and road users.
NXP is bringing its latest generation of radar systems, helping vehicles perceive their surroundings more accurately. Researchers from Eindhoven University of Technology are evaluating their new autonomous vehicle, which was automated based on open software solutions. The activities are taking place across various sections of the test facility, including the highway circuit, the vehicle manoeuvring area and the internal connecting roads.
Collaboration Between Flanders and the Netherlands
The test week is part of CCAM Proving Region, a project within the Interreg Flanders–Netherlands programme. Research institutions, companies, public authorities and regional development agencies from Flanders and the Netherlands are collaborating on autonomous mobility. By combining knowledge, infrastructure and expertise, the partners aim to bring new developments from research into practice more quickly. The collaboration is also intended to ensure that experiences and insights can be shared across borders.
imec — project coordinator
“With this test week, we are not only creating a technical validation environment, but above all a bridge towards real deployment on public roads. This is crucial for moving from innovation to implementation.” — Sven Vlassenroot, Project Lead CCAM Proving Region, imec
Flanders Make — test operations
“The strength of this test week lies in the combination of realistic scenarios, strict safety procedures and collaboration between different technologies. That is exactly what is needed to build trust.” — Joep Wolters, Flanders Make
POM Limburg — regional anchoring
“Companies need not only technology, but also a place where they can demonstrate it safely and realistically. With Ford Lommel Proving Ground, strong knowledge institutions and innovative companies, Limburg has unique assets to further develop new mobility technologies. In this way, we help companies bring innovations more quickly towards practical and market applications, while at the same time attracting investment, building knowledge and creating economic opportunities for our region.” — Tom Vandeput, Deputy for Economy and Chairman of POM Limburg
Brainport Development — Dutch communication and ecosystem
“Thanks to this collaboration, we demonstrate that cross-border innovation is essential to bring autonomous mobility to the market faster and more efficiently.” — Ana Alanis, Programme Manager Smart Mobility, Brainport Development
