By NanoMalaysia
The Electric Autonomous Delivery Vehicle Wireless Charging project addresses the challenge of manually charging last-mile autonomous delivery vehicles, hindering operational efficiency. The project focuses on developing a wireless charging system for these vehicles, termed "Opportunity Charging," during downtime between deliveries. This innovative solution eliminates manual charging, ensuring vehicles are ready for deployment when needed. Key features include a unique wireless charging technology, specialised charging coil design, and an Internet of Things (IoT) enabled Battery Management System (BMS) for efficiently monitoring battery levels. The project's objectives include developing a Proof-of-Concept (PoC) for the wireless charging technology, creating a prototype user interface for ordering items, and monitoring battery status. The scope encompasses designing and evaluating the wireless charging, battery monitoring, and ordering user interface. The project does not cover mass production, marketing, or sales aspects. Stakeholders involved in the project include UM Power Electronics And Renewable Energy Research Laboratory (UM PEARL) and HelloWorld Robotics Sdn Bhd. Key milestones achieved include establishing a PoC for the autonomous last-mile delivery vehicle with wireless charging capabilities, implementing an IoT-enabled BMS system, and developing a prototype user interface. Notably, the system has been successfully tested, achieving an efficiency of 85% at 1kW power and autonomously completing delivery routes. Future plans include introducing the delivery user interface to MRANTI food court vendors and customers, as well as initiating production of last-mile delivery robots and wireless charging docks. Market analysis indicates significant growth potential, with the worldwide autonomous last-mile delivery market expected to reach USD 48.96 Billion by 2027. The estimated price per unit for these delivery vehicles ranges from RM20,000 to RM150,000, with a projected selling price of around RM75,000 based on mass production costs. Partnership opportunities are also anticipated, with an estimated creation of 10 jobs over a 5-year projection, including roles for delivery robot operators and engineers specializing in hardware and software development.