David Keene, founder of Aurrigo International, has been awarded an MBE for his services to the ‘decarbonization of airports’. With over 40 years of experience in the automotive industry, he has focused on developing driverless technology and intelligent mobility solutions for aviation.
The Warwickshire-based entrepreneur was acknowledged for creating the Auto-DollyTug, an autonomous vehicle that transports luggage and cargo at six airports internationally.
The MBE was awarded a few weeks after Aurrigo began working with Swissport to launch services at Zurich Airport, with plans to look at using the same approach in other locations worldwide.
“When you’ve been in business for four decades, nothing tends to surprise you…until this!” commented Professor David Keene MBE.
“Aurrigo has come a long way since I started the business in my spare room in 1993. Whilst automotive components (mainly wiring looms and electronics) are still a major part of the business, it is our ‘first to market’ work in autonomous aviation vehicles that is catching the media headlines.”
He continued: “It is such a massive honor to be recognized by HRH King Charles, but the MBE is really for all the team that have played such a key role in our growth and success to date. They’ve believed in the dream, and it is their skills, expertise and technical knowledge that has transported us to the front of the autonomous conversation.”
David coined the phrase “intelligent Ground Support Equipment (iGSE)” and supports UK manufacturing. He also works to get young people interested in engineering.
He values education and works with Aston, Warwick and Coventry Universities. Through these partnerships, students and researchers can gain experience with Aurrigo’s vehicles and technology, using what they learn to support their R&D projects.
His passion for mobility has also seen him commit 100 hours+ of voluntary service to the UK Automotive Council, Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders, local Universities and Galgotias University in India, where he lectures international students on automated vehicles and technology.
He has spent over ten years in these roles, contributing with his business perspective on how technology, business support, funding, and industry rules develop.
David concluded: “We are building something really exciting in the UK that positions us as a real driving force in the world of autonomous vehicles for aviation.
“As we grow through Auto-DollyTug, Auto-Sim (simulation software for replicating airport activity) and Auto-Cargo, we are going to need more people with the right skills and talent to take us to the next level.”
“That’s why it is important that we are vocal about the careers available in manufacturing and technology, showcasing the global opportunities they deliver.”
Source: Aurrigo
About Aurrigo International
Aurrigo International plc, headquartered in Coventry, UK, is a technology-driven company specializing in autonomous and automated solutions for the aviation and automotive industries. Established as part of the RDM Group, it has been in business for over 30 years, developing airside ground handling systems, baggage transportation and autonomous vehicle solutions. Aurrigo serves airports, airlines, logistics providers, and automotive manufacturers, focusing on efficiency and sustainability through automation. Aurrigo has expanded globally, working with clients across North America, Europe, and Asia. As of recent financial reports, its annual revenue exceeds £10 million, with continuous growth driven by increased demand for innovative mobility solutions.