Aurrigo International Collaborates with Digital Testbed for Autonomous Cargo Trials at Munich Airport

By Anushka Malhotra

1 minute 18 seconds

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Quick Read: Aurrigo International partners with the Digital Testbed Air Cargo Project Consortium for autonomous cargo trials at Munich Airport, deploying the Auto-DollyTug to explore the potential of innovative technologies in enhancing air cargo efficiency.

In a pioneering move towards revolutionizing cargo transport, Aurrigo International has joined forces with the Digital Testbed Air Cargo Project Consortium. The collaboration, backed by the German Federal Ministry of Digital and Transport (BMDV), is set to unleash autonomous cargo trials featuring Aurrigo's groundbreaking Auto-DollyTug at Munich International Airport.

Scheduled for deployment in Q2 2024, the Auto-DollyTug is designed to navigate autonomous cargo transport challenges. What sets it apart is its ability to transport four Unit Load Devices (ULDs) with three trailers, boasting a remarkable 30% increase in cargo capacity within the same overall length compared to conventional tug setups.

Photo Credit: Aurrigo

The Digital Testbed Air Cargo Project Consortium, led by Fraunhofer IML and the Frankfurt University of Applied Science, aims to leverage innovative technologies for efficient and seamless air cargo operations. The project received funding from the BMDV to explore the potential of autonomous solutions in the air cargo domain.

David Keene, CEO of Aurrigo International, expressed enthusiasm about expanding their collaboration with the Digital Testbed Air Cargo project to include Munich. With two significant deployments slated for Germany in 2024, Aurrigo International is at the forefront of pushing the boundaries of autonomous technology, unlocking new possibilities in diverse airport settings worldwide.

The autonomous cargo trials in Munich are expected to provide valuable insights into the feasibility and advantages of deploying Auto-DollyTug in real-world scenarios. The results, anticipated in Q3 2024, could have far-reaching implications for the future of cargo transport, emphasizing the role of autonomous solutions in enhancing efficiency and capacity.

As the aviation industry continues to explore innovative technologies to streamline operations, Aurrigo International's collaboration with the Digital Testbed Air Cargo Project Consortium stands as a testament to the transformative potential of autonomous cargo transport. Keep an eye on the developments, as this trial could pave the way for a new era in the air cargo landscape.

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Inicio AI Raises £2.6M in Seed Round to Scale AI-Powered Financial Platform

Inicio AI, a Coventry-based fintech innovator, has raised £2.6 million in seed funding to fuel growth and roll out its FCA-regulated consumer affordability platform.

The funding round was supported by a consortium of high-profile investors, including Rigby Group, Morgan Stanley, Haatch Ventures, Angel Academe, Mint Ventures, and a number of individual angel investors. It also includes a £500,000 investment from the West Midlands Co-Investment Fund (WMCO), managed by Midven, part of Future Planet Capital.

The raise follows Inicio AI’s recent win at Birmingham Tech Week’s OneToWin pitch competition, where it earned recognition for Budgie AI, its intelligent virtual agent designed to help individuals better manage their finances.

The funds will be used to scale the company’s operations, including the launch of the UK’s first FCA-regulated specialist consumer affordability passporting service. This innovation will allow consumers to share verified affordability data with third parties, streamlining financial assessments across sectors.

The company also plans to grow its West Midlands headquarters, adding new talent in tech and data roles to support ongoing development.

Rachel Curtis, CEO of Inicio AI, commented:

“This investment, alongside our OneToWin recognition, represents a major milestone. It enables us to enhance our technology, scale our impact, and help more people take control of their financial future while improving efficiency for lenders.”

The WMCO, jointly launched by the West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA) and the West Midlands Pension Fund, aims to back high-growth SMEs driving innovation and economic growth in the region through matched equity investment of up to £1 million.

Richard Parker, Mayor of the West Midlands and WMCA Chair, said:

“Inicio AI is a fantastic example of regional innovation. With the right investment and support, local companies like this can launch groundbreaking solutions that improve lives and grow our economy.”

Rupert Lyle, Investment Director at Midven and Fund Principal of WMCO, added:

“Inicio AI’s cutting-edge approach to affordability assessments is reshaping how the financial sector operates. We’re excited to be part of their journey.”

By Anushka Malhotra

16 Apr

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