In the IVT system, a modified Nissan Leaf electric vehicle is responsible for autonomous towing of carts with finished cars between their loading and unloading points.
The tow vehicle independently monitors lane markings, curbs, and potential hazards. By comparing the received data with map data, the Leaf calculates its location and moves to the destination without exceeding the set speed, automatically stopping before obstacles, and when the path becomes clear, it resumes movement.
The route can be easily changed. All autonomous tow vehicles are connected to a central control system that allows monitoring the location, speed, battery charge, and production status of each such vehicle.
When two autonomous road trains meet at an intersection, the control system determines the order of passage, and in an emergency, it remotely stops the vehicles.
The IVT system will improve production efficiency and may eventually appear at other Nissan plants in Japan and beyond.
