Dutch construction giant Heijmans has launched what it claims to be Europe’s first autonomous electric road roller. The prototype must help tackle labour shortages and cut emissions on infrastructure projects.
Heijmans is one of the Netherlands’ biggest construction firms. As part of tightening tender rules, it has been steadily preparing its heavy-duty equipment for zero-emission operations, primarily by adopting battery-driven alternatives.
Urgently needed
But the company is taking its efforts one step further. It has taken the wraps off a self-driving electric roller that it believes could reshape roadbuilding. Developed in collaboration with robotics specialist Avular, the prototype is designed to operate without a driver in the cab (see video below). It responds to pre-programmed instructions and adjusts its performance in real-time. It reminds us of similarly intelligent machines in the agricultural sector.
According to Heijmans, the technology is urgently needed. An ageing workforce and persistent labour shortages have left Dutch infrastructure projects under pressure. But the demands for maintenance and upgrades on the country’s vast road network continue to rise. As such, automation is not a gimmick but a practical solution to keep projects on track and staff safe.
Consistent quality
The roller continuously monitors asphalt temperature and compaction levels, making adjustments as needed under remote operator supervision. Removing staff from the live worksite is also intended to reduce accident risks, while automated systems should be good at maintaining consistent quality. The machine is also fitted with an emergency braking system to bolster safety claims.
Bart Smolders, head of Heijmans’ infrastructure division, stated that the company is unable to meet future maintenance needs using traditional methods. “Technology allows us to deliver high-quality work more safely while making progress towards our sustainability goals,” he said.
The prototype is set for a public demonstration at Schiphol Airport later this month. If trials prove successful, a production model will join Heijmans’ asphalt teams in 2026. The longer-term aim is for operators to coordinate multiple machines simultaneously, potentially halving the number of personnel required on a crew. The company is already exploring similar automation for pavers and other equipment.
No fume, no noise
Environmental benefits are a central focus of the project. The roller runs on batteries, producing no exhaust fumes and less noise than diesel-powered equipment. That makes it better suited for roadworks carried out in densely populated areas, particularly overnight, where noise and air quality are sensitive issues.
Alongside the autonomous driving prototype, the company operates a fully electric asphalt paver, a compact roller, a Volvo-based electric bitumen sprayer, and battery-powered excavators ranging from a converted Liebherr A916 mobile digger to a 40-tonne Doosan DX355LC crawler excavator equipped with a swappable battery for longer shifts.
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