Helsinki tests out street sweeper robot

Trombia Free will clean the streets of the Jätkäsaari district from 19 April

Finland has reportedly developed the world’s first fully powered, electric and autonomous street sweeper, Trombia Free. Now, the City of Helsinki and Trombia Technologies will test out the sweeper in the Jätkäsaari district from 19 to 27 April. This test trial aims to investigate how Helsinki can clean the streets of its residential areas without emissions and noise disruptions.

According to the City of Helsinki’s website, the Managing Director of Trombia Technologies Antti Nikkanen commented: “The autonomous and electric street sweeper is so quiet that it makes it possible to sweep the streets at night, hindering traffic as little as possible. For us, Jätkäsaari is an ideal smart city test location and a reference for the world’s major cities, as Jätkäsaari at night will show what can really be achieved with automation in an urban environment.”

Efficiency and productivity

The Helsinki City Construction Services Stara will work alongside Trombia Technologies and the City of Helsinki to monitor the robot’s test trial. It is important to note that Stara seeks to enhance productivity and improve residents’ quality of life through digitalisation and robotisation. Taking this further, it implements the Carbon-neutral Helsinki 2035 programme and works towards the development of “the world’s most functional city”.

It follows then, that the Trombia Free robot’s efficiency and functionality will be thoroughly assessed during its pilot. More specifically, the pilot will test the sweeper’s noise levels and the efficiency of its operations. Ultimately, the trial aims to examine both the benefits and limitations of the robot.

Trombia Free will run during weekday evenings and its working hours will vary each night. Furthermore, it must be noted that an operator will also accompany the robot during its test trial in order to guarantee the safety of residents. Nevertheless, Trombia Free has been designed to stop when it detects movement and obstacles, such as pedestrians.

By developing this robot, Helsinki demonstrates its dedication to climate action once again. What is more, it proves its commitment to creating an urban environment that is safe and comfortable for its residents.