The Brazilian startup company Lume Robotics has implemented driverless transport systems for operation in industrial facilities, including factories and ports. For example, a bus transporting employees inside a metallurgical plant in the state of Espírito Santo operates without a driver.
Lume Robotics, a startup from the state of Capixaba, also provides driverless truck services for companies such as Suzano, ArcelorMittal, Portocel, Ypê, and Mercedes-Benz. Currently, ten autonomous vehicles are distributed among six clients.
For instance, at the Suzano facility, four trucks are used to deliver products from production lines to the distribution center. Specifically, at the ArcelorMittal Tubarão site, located in Serra (Espírito Santo), a Marcopolo minibus began transporting personnel at the end of June.
The software uses artificial intelligence to map routes, recognize both stationary and moving obstacles, and make maneuvering decisions similar to those of a driver. According to Lume, the system reacts in a tenth of a second, which is faster than a human. The company estimates that automation allows for a reduction in operating costs by approximately 25% through fuel savings and reduced maintenance costs.
Currently, this technology is limited to private territories, such as industrial zones, ports, and factory grounds, where vehicles follow pre-set routes. Lume was founded in 2019 following ten years of research into autonomous vehicles at the Federal University of Espírito Santo (Ufes).
Before establishing the company, the same team assisted Embraer in testing the Legacy 500 aircraft, which could move autonomously on the runway in 2019. Initial funding was secured through the Centelha federal government program, which provided scholarships and equipment. Since then, according to founder Rânik Guidolini, the startup has been growing at an average of 150% annually and has attracted nearly 5 million reais from private investors.
The next project is a cabless electric truck being developed jointly with Suzano for cellulose transportation. The prototype is planned for completion by 2027, with trials scheduled for 2028. During the same period, Lume aims to enter the international market; negotiations are underway with companies from Uruguay, Chile, and Mexico, and the company intends to expand its operations to reach about 12 clients and 20 vehicles.