Picture this: a busy terminal, blazing heat, maybe even a sandstorm rolling in — and suddenly, satellite positioning drops out. For most autonomous systems, that's a nightmare. But at CSP Abu Dhabi Terminal (CSP ADT) in Khalifa Port, it's just another Tuesday.
In March 2026, Westwell pulled off something genuinely impressive: normal autonomous operations under Zero-GNSS conditions across its entire fleet. No satellites, no problem.
So how does it work? Instead of leaning on GPS, Westwell's vehicles combine LiDAR, odometry, and inertial measurement unit (IMU) data. Consequently, they maintain precise localization even when satellite signals vanish completely.
This matters enormously in the Middle East, where sandstorms and extreme heat regularly interfere with outdoor operations.
Since 2019, CSP ADT and Westwell have steadily built this capability. First came the intelligent quay crane tally system, then Q-Trucks in 2021, and finally six Q-Chassis IGVs in 2025.
Ultimately, this milestone signals where autonomous logistics is headed. As terminals across the region push toward full autonomy, GNSS-independent navigation won't just be impressive — it'll be essential.
