Shantui launches ‘World’s First’ Autonomous, Unmanned Bulldozer

02 Sep 2022 CW Team

The first unmanned bulldozer in the world has reportedly been created by Huazhong University of Science and Technology (HUST) researchers and construction equipment manufacturer Shantui.

The team has tested the machine, which can follow operating instructions and operate independently without remote control, more than 100 times over the last three years.

The fully autonomous dozer from Shantui was created at HUST's National Digital Construction Technology Innovation Center in Wuhan under the project name DH17C2U. A powerful computing system, accurate positioning system, and 5G communication enable autonomous operation.

Material can be pushed and leveled by the machine, even in conditions of extreme cold as low as -10 degrees. Later this year, additional testing in mining and infrastructure construction scenarios is planned.

When the technology is ready, Shantui intends to release the device on the market. According to the company, the use of autonomous machines on construction sites will result in numerous safety advantages and labor cost savings.

Depending on how you define autonomy, Shantui is not the first manufacturer to enter the market for self-driving bulldozers.

2019 Bauma is where Liebherr unveiled a concept dozer without a cab. The 7XX model needs an operator operating from a remote control station, unlike Shantui's model.

Built Robotics released an aftermarket kit in 2020 that allows any manufacturer's bulldozer to be transformed into an entirely autonomous device. Exosystem-equipped dozers from Built Robotics are capable of finishing grading, spreading and pushing material, ripping, and track walking, the company claims.

Huazhong University of Science and Technology (HUST);

Infrastructure Transport

29 Oct 2025

Taking Flight!

When Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the Navi Mumbai International Airport (NMIA) on October 8, 2025, it marked far more than the opening of another terminal – it signified a turning point in India’s aviation and infrastructure narrative. Developed by Adani Airport Holdings Ltd (AAHL) in partnership with the City and Industrial Development Corporation (CIDCO), NMIA represents a bold vision of how modern India intends to connect its people, power its economy and project its identity on the global stage.“The Navi Mumbai International Airport is a project that exemplifies the visio..

Highway Guidelines 2.0

In August 2025, a Public Accounts Committee comprising members of the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha presented a report, ‘Levy and Regulation of Fees, Tariffs, User Charges etc on Public Infrastructure and Other Public Utilities in the context of the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) and the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI).Having examined present design accountability, subcontracting, pavement failures, emergency response mechanisms, toll reforms, service quality, stakeholder consultations and other aspects, the Committee presented recommendations covering the planning a..

Railways approves major upgrade for Telangana traction lines

The Ministry of Railways has approved the upgradation of the electric traction system in two crucial railway sections — Medchal–Mudkhed (225 km) and Mahbubnagar–Dhone (184 km). The projects, costing Rs 1.93 billion and Rs 1.23 billion respectively, will enhance the electric traction capacity from 1X25 KV to 2X25 KV. The work includes modifications to circuit breakers and switching stations, along with the installation of additional conductors. These routes serve as vital links between Northern and Southern India via Hyderabad. Once completed, the upgraded system will reduce voltage dro..