Chris Matthew, Commercial Director for Plantforce, shared his views while speaking to Peter Haddock at Highways UK, where he addressed the future of earthworks technology, alternative fuels, and the role of people in the evolving industry. Matthew stressed that autonomous machinery should not be feared, highlighting the potential for the construction sector to make substantial productivity gains and reduce carbon emissions by leveraging technologies like 3D machine control and AI-driven safety systems.
He also discussed the release of the Connected Autonomous Plant (CAP) report by Costain Group PLC, funded by the UK Department for Transport, which predicts a £417 billion boost to the UK economy by 2050. Matthew further outlined how the industry is moving towards a greener future, noting the recent conversion of two Kobelco Hybrid 20-tonne excavators to dual-fuel hydrogen by ULEMCo as part of the Elements 1 Government-funded project.
Listen to the full interview below...