Asyad explores cleaner truck operations

Asyad Group has signed three agreements to test autonomous freight vehicles, low-carbon hydrogen and cleaner energy solutions in Oman, with the projects aimed at improving freight efficiency and reducing fuel use and emissions.

The autonomous vehicle pilot with Zelos Technology will test freight vehicles at the Port of Sohar and Salalah Free Zone. The trials will look at safety, performance and whether autonomous vehicles can be used in daily logistics operations.

Ahmed al Bulushi, Chief Executive Officer of Asyad Drydock and Infrastructure Services at Asyad Group, commented: “These partnerships enable us to turn emerging technologies into tangible operational trials, giving us the practical insight needed to assess their impact on improving operational efficiency and reducing emissions. At Asyad, we focus on adopting sustainable, scalable solutions that create long-term value for the transport and maritime sectors, supporting the sector’s competitiveness and reinforcing the Sultanate of Oman’s position as a global logistics hub.”

Asyad has also signed a term sheet with OQ Alternative Energy for more than 91,000kg of low-carbon hydrogen a year. The hydrogen, produced using renewable energy, will be supplied through a planned refuelling station in Duqm for use by Asyad’s vehicle fleet.

Once operational, the supply is expected to support eight to 10 heavy-duty hydrogen trucks a day and replace around 1,100 litres of conventional fuel daily.

The third agreement with Moon Rock Research & Development will assess the use of onshore power supply for vessels, although the wider focus is on its potential to reduce emissions from logistics and maritime operations.

The trials could give Asyad operational data on the cost, safety and efficiency of newer freight technologies before wider deployment. They also point to a growing focus on alternative fuels and automation in Oman’s logistics sector.