EX9

EX9 is a French technology startup that provides automation services for industrial transport in terminal and yard operations. Founded in early 2021 by Ksenia Duarte and Enzo Salvatore, the company is headquartered in Évry, France. The co-founders began working together in 2015 on autonomous mobility concepts and identified a significant need for automation in industrial applications to address harsh working conditions and labor shortages. Duarte, the CEO, has over 20 years of experience in technological innovation and mobility, while Salvatore, the CTO, is an expert in mechatronics, robotics, and autonomous mobility.

EX9 offers a full-service solution, described as Unmanned Transport as a Service (TaaS), which includes a fleet of autonomous, all-electric yard tractors designed to move heavy loads like trailers, containers, and pallets. This service is aimed at logistics companies, warehouses, distribution hubs, ports, and manufacturing plants in Europe. The business model allows clients to scale their operations to meet fluctuating demand without the capital expenditure of purchasing and maintaining a fleet, instead paying a set service fee. The company's in-house developed Autopilot Turnkey system uses AI and computer vision for navigation, perception, and dynamic control in complex logistics environments. This technology enables features like dock door identification, real-time yard mapping, and operation in various weather conditions.

The company's solution aims to enhance operational efficiency, improve safety, and reduce CO2 emissions. By automating yard operations, EX9 helps to increase pre-loading activities, reduce driver waiting times, and speed up truck rotations. A recent pilot program with DHL Supply Chain in France demonstrated the viability of their Transport-as-a-Service concept. EX9 has gained traction with major industry players and was selected by the French Government to present its solutions at CES 2024. The company has raised approximately €300k and plans for service deployment in early 2025.

Keywords: autonomous yard tractors, transport as a service, TaaS, logistics automation, supply chain technology, industrial transport, terminal operations, electric tow-robots, autonomous mobility, drop & hook shunting, yard management, automated guided vehicles, AGV, freight transportation, robotics as a service, RaaS, computer vision, fleet management, sustainable logistics, Industry 4.0, warehouse automation, multimodal transport, port automation, autonomous systems, EV, mechatronics