Aurrigo secures ‘landmark’ £6.28 million contract

A Midlands-based autonomous vehicle technology company has secured a record manufacturing contract to build a fleet of driverless vehicles.

Coventry-headquartered Aurrigo International plc has signed a £6.28 million agreement with rapid transit specialist Ultra Global Limited to manufacture an initial fleet of 25 autonomous guided vehicles (AGVs).

The programme will modernise existing vehicle platforms, including upgrading battery systems from lead-acid to lithium-ion and integrating advanced sensors, control units and software.

Initial vehicles will be used for demonstrations and commercial engagement as the companies explore further deployment opportunities in the UK and international markets.

Coming days after the firm secured a deal with East Midlands Airport, the contract marks the largest vehicle manufacturing order in Aurrigo’s history and forms part of its wider strategy to scale production and deliver revenue-generating programmes following a recent £14.1 million capital raise.

David Keene, chief executive of Aurrigo International, said: “When we announced our recent £14.1 million fundraise, we outlined our strategy to secure strategic partners who could unlock new market opportunities and drive sustainable growth.

“This approach has delivered a landmark contract with Ultra Global becoming the largest vehicle order in our history, and one that will complement our existing Auto-® range of autonomous vehicles. 

“Our focus now is on delivering a modernised platform that reflects the highest standards of performance and innovation.

“The programme will also support engineering and manufacturing activity in the West Midlands, a region with a strong heritage in vehicle production. 

“We’re proud to be building on that history and putting the expertise of our teams to work on the next generation of autonomous vehicles.”

Jonathan Keeling, director of Ultra Global Limited, added: “In evaluating partners globally, Aurrigo distinguished itself through its ability to deliver the complete vehicle solution - from core platform development through to advanced technology implementation.

“We are proud to have found that expertise here in the UK, with manufacturing capability based in the heart of the West Midlands. 

“This contract marks a significant step in advancing the Ultra Global platform to the next level.”

“It also gives us the opportunity demonstrate how this technology can address real passenger transport needs across the UK. 

“This is the beginning of something very significant for all parties. 

“We anticipate further business and additional orders, as we expand globally and unlock new opportunities for the deployment of our autonomous vehicles.”

Engineering development will be completed by the end of the year, with production and testing to follow ahead of a planned completion in September 2027.

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