Holcim UK has hosted a trial of autonomous digging at its Lee Moor sand and gravel quarry near Plymouth. A 23-tonne Develon crawler excavator fitted with autonomous technology from Swiss start-up Gravis Robotics was put through its paces for two days. Paul Mitchinson, head of mobile plant for Holcim UK, said: “We were excited to be able to take part in the trial at one of our quarries and see how autonomous technology could work and be successfully integrated into day-to-day operations. “As a company we are continuously seeking to innovate and to improve our ways of working in order to enhance productivity. The strategic partnership aims to develop the commercialisation of autonomous technology designed to enhance productivity, improve safety in quarry operations and within confined materials handling.