In a world-first trial, Swedish tech company Einride successfully tested its autonomous electric truck—which features no driver's cab—at the Port of Antwerp-Bruges in Belgium in September 2025. As one of Europe's largest and most digitally advanced ports, it provided the ideal environment for testing robotic transport technologies under real-world conditions.

The site was specifically chosen because it operates under a new regulatory framework that permits the use of autonomous vehicles in designated zones. This enabled Einride to conduct the trial without the legal restrictions that would typically hinder live operations.

The truck, named the "Einride Pod," is approximately 7.3 meters long with a gross weight of 20 tons and a cargo capacity of 15 cubic meters. It is fully electric, powered by a 320 kWh lithium-ion battery that provides a range of over 650 kilometers on a single charge. Its design is unique as it completely lacks a driver's cabin, confirming it is built exclusively for autonomous operation without a human driver inside.

The Pod relies on an advanced artificial intelligence system that allows it to perceive its surroundings and make instantaneous decisions, such as stopping, steering, and avoiding obstacles. However, despite its autonomous capabilities, it remains connected to a remote operation platform called "Saga." This platform enables human operators to monitor the vehicle and intervene when necessary, especially in emergencies or complex situations. This hybrid model, combining technological autonomy with human oversight, represents a transitional step toward a fully autonomous transport future.

The trial demonstrated that autonomous trucks are no longer just experimental prototypes but are now viable tools ready for real-world deployment in industrial environments. This breakthrough opens the door to a radical transformation in the logistics sector.