The challenge
Construction logistics often take place in a complex and dynamic environment. Large vehicles manoeuvre among employees, suppliers, equipment and other road users. Particularly when reversing, people can unexpectedly enter an area that is difficult for the driver to see.
Warning systems and cameras help drivers identify risks sooner, but still depend partly on their ability to react. Dura Vermeer was therefore looking for the next step: a solution that not only detects hazards and issues warnings, but can also intervene automatically in the event of imminent danger.
This safety requirement coincided with the introduction of a new Volvo FH Electric. This enabled Dura Vermeer to combine the decarbonisation of its fleet with a practical innovation in vehicle safety.
The solution
Working with Volvo Trucks Netherlands, Rietveld equipped the electric Volvo FH with an advanced AI-powered braking system.
An intelligent camera continuously monitors a predefined zone behind the truck. The AI technology can recognise pedestrians within this danger zone. As soon as the system detects a person, it immediately warns the driver.
If the driver does not respond, or does not respond adequately, the system sends a signal to the vehicle via the CAN bus and automatically slows down the truck. This solution therefore goes beyond camera visibility or an audible warning: the technology can actively help prevent a collision.
The solution is particularly valuable in busy construction and logistics environments, where visibility can be limited and pedestrians may unexpectedly find themselves behind a vehicle. The camera can also detect a person who is sitting or lying close to the ground.
The results
The pilot provides Dura Vermeer with an additional safety barrier when reversing heavy vehicles.
The driver retains control of the vehicle and receives an active warning first. At the same time, the automatic braking system provides additional support when a dangerous situation is not noticed in time or the driver fails to respond.
The main results include:
- early detection of pedestrians behind the vehicle;
- an immediate warning to the driver;
- automatic braking if the driver does not respond in time;
- less reliance solely on human observation and intervention;
- additional protection for employees and bystanders;
- support for Dura Vermeer’s safety and sustainability ambitions.
The pilot also contributes to proactive risk management, helps reduce potential damage and liability costs, and strengthens safety and corporate social responsibility within projects and tender processes.
Developing the solution together with Rietveld
This application is not a standalone standard product, but a solution tailored to Dura Vermeer’s vehicle, working environment and safety requirements.
Rietveld combined its expertise in AI camera detection, vehicle systems and automatic braking intervention with the knowledge of Volvo Trucks and Dura Vermeer’s practical experience. This collaboration enabled the technology to be safely integrated into the new electric truck.
The pilot marks the beginning of a broader exploration. Rietveld has been asked to contribute actively as a knowledge partner and supplier, helping to assess the possibilities for wider implementation throughout the organisation.
Relevance to the sector
Dura Vermeer’s challenge is familiar to many organisations operating in construction, infrastructure, waste management, recycling, industry and logistics.
In these sectors, large vehicles often operate in environments where people work close to vehicles and machinery. Cameras and warning systems improve visibility and awareness, while automatic braking intervention adds an important final layer of safety.
For company directors, fleet managers and safety professionals, this technology can contribute to:
- greater safety for employees and bystanders;
- a lower risk of injury, damage and downtime;
- reduced liability and damage risks;
- better support for safety policies and compliance;
- stronger CSR and sustainability objectives;
- a more future-proof fleet of vehicles and machinery.
Conclusion
With its pilot on the Volvo FH Electric, Dura Vermeer demonstrates how safety, innovation and sustainability can reinforce one another.
The AI-powered braking system supports the driver during one of the riskiest manoeuvres in construction logistics: reversing in an environment where people may unexpectedly enter the danger zone. By issuing a warning first and then automatically slowing down the vehicle if the driver fails to respond, the technology actively helps prevent potential accidents.
The collaboration between Dura Vermeer, Rietveld and Volvo Trucks is therefore more than a technical trial. It is also an important step towards the wider adoption of intelligent vehicle safety technology within the construction sector.
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