M1, Continental and JTC advance Singapore’s Smart Nation ambition through 5G standalone network and robotics

Partnership of M1, Continental and JTC to advance
autonomous mobility expertise in Singapore

SINGAPORE, 20 JANUARY 2021 –  M1 Limited (M1), Continental Automotive Singapore (Continental) and JTC jointly announced a collaboration to conduct autonomous transport systems 5G standalone (SA) trials for Autonomous Mobile Robots (AMRs) operations. This trial is supported by the Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA), which is focused on supporting and nurturing the growth of 5G use cases in Singapore.

The joint partnership will explore the operations of 5G-enabled AMRs in a live environment, based on newly developed network and infrastructure solutions for consumers, as well as enhance construction safety using analytics. M1, Continental and JTC will create the infrastructure and deep dive into the operations of AMRs for last mile delivery of goods and food, to support the burgeoning growth of e-commerce and drive Singapore’s progress as a global innovation hub for connected mobility.

Focusing on network architecture and planning, M1 will take on project management to implement the 5G SA network infrastructure for AMRs operations. Continental will deploy Corriere LM, its Last Mile Delivery Robot, to demonstrate its technology for driverless mobility systems. JTC will provide the trial spaces and facilitate discussions with tenants and operators on potential user trials.

The trials will be carried out in Jurong Innovation District (JID), at locations such as the Centre of Excellence for Testing and Research of Autonomous Vehicles (CETRAN), JTC developments in CleanTech Park, and construction projects in the district. JTC will also assess the trial performance to further enhance the infrastructure for safe operations of the AMRs as well as construction safety at JTC sites, using video analytics for detection of safety violations and provision of real-time alerts.

“We are very pleased to work closely with Continental and JTC to demonstrate the extensive capabilities of the 5G SA network, which is going to be the real game changer for 5G. M1 is at the forefront of deploying 5G SA network for real-world solutions, supported by M1’s low-latency, responsive, secured and high-throughput mobile 5G SA connectivity, which are essential for the operation of AMRs and other autonomous vehicles. The possibilities are endless with 5G, and with the support of IMDA, we are taking another step forward in driving Singapore's Smart Nation ambitions,” said Mr Willis Sim, Chief Corporate Sales and Solutions Officer, M1.

“The collaboration will allow Continental to deploy our robot concept, Corriere LM, for future autonomous last mile delivery transport. It will benefit from our world-class expertise in autonomous vehicle technology. 5G will essentially enable the safe and reliable execution of AMRs, allowing us to facilitate trials to prepare for future real-life deployments. With the help of robot delivery, Continental is ready to accelerate Singapore’s Smart Nation journey, through our vision for seamless mobility right to your doorstep,” added Mr Kien Foh Lo, President & CEO of Continental Automotive Singapore.

“Jurong Innovation District is Singapore’s largest living lab for new manufacturing and logistics technology and solutions. Riding on the wave of digital transformation, technology providers and manufacturers are seeking to develop and test-bed use cases that demonstrate how 5G can be deployed to enhance operations and drive further innovation. Complemented by our ready ecosystem of partners and infrastructure in JID, this trial will help to bring new innovations to market faster,” said Ms Finn Tay, Director of New Estates Division 1, JTC.

“As the architects of Singapore’s digital future, IMDA will continue to invest in the development of a secure and resilient 5G communications network and ecosystem, so as to bring about exciting opportunities for individuals, workers and businesses. We welcome more industry partners to join us in co-creating new possibilities in Singapore’s 5G journey,” said Mr Liau Eng Soon, Cluster Director, Trade and Connectivity, IMDA.

M1 is committed to drive technology change through 5G and apply innovative technology that could make a difference to Singapore’s transformation to a digital economy. M1 has started various multi-vendor 5G trials as early as 2018. A recent 5G collaboration was the partnership with the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore and Airbus for coastal 5G SA network trials at the Singapore Maritime Drone Estate for unmanned aerial vehicles. M1 also partnered PSA Corporation to explore 5G-enabled innovative Smart Port use-cases such as tele-remote controlled equipment and automated guided vehicles.