BASF - AGV Solutions
From blueprint to deployement: Customized vehicle solutions at scale
When BASF in Ludwigshafen needed an autonomous transport solution capable of continuous operation in a demanding environment, our sister company VDL Automated Vehicles stepped in to develop a fully custom autonomous vehicle. The challenge: how to handle special cargo safely, efficiently and reliably within one of the world’s largest chemical production sites.
This logistics challenge was translated in to a high availability autonomous vehicle, designed to support 24/7 production with maximum reliability and uptime.
Concept development based on operational requirements
VDL Automated Vehicles worked closely with the client to analyze operational workflows, environmental constraints and performance requirements. Based on these insights, a custom vehicle concept was developed, specifically tailored to meet the high availability and reliability demands of continuous industrial operations.
An iterative design process ensured that the solution addressed real world operational challenges, rather than theoretical assumptions.
One-stop-shop for realization, manufacturing, and assembly
VDL Steelweld played a key role in bringing the machine from concept to operational reality. Our responsibilities included:
· Contract manufacturing and assembly of the machine
· System integration and alignment with operational requirements
· Quality assurance and testing for industrial robustness
· In house manufacturing and series production
By combining engineering, manufacturing, and assembly under one roof, VDL Steelweld enabled short feedback loops, consistent quality and a controlled transition from concept to delivery.
The result
The outcome is a robust, purpose built autonomous vehicle solution that supports BASF’s special cargo handling operations:
· Custom developed by VDL Automated Vehicles for complex industrial environments
· Assembled, tested, and delivered by VDL Steelweld
· Designed for reliable 24/7 operation
· Ready for continuous use with minimal downtime
From Concept to Operational Reality
This project illustrates the strength of our collaborative contract manufacturing approach.: our customer provides the concept and engineering expertise, while VDL Steelweld ensures professional realization, manufacturing, and assembly.
Looking to outsource the production and assembly of high-performance, industrial machines?