Daimler Truck: A Major Step Toward Autonomous Trucks

Torc Robotics and Daimler Truck (Freightliner & Western Star) Reach a Major Milestone Toward Commercializing Autonomous Trucks

In the field of autonomous trucks, every technological advancement is a step closer to a future where freight transport safety and efficiency will be significantly improved.

It is in this context that Torc Robotics, a subsidiary of Daimler Truck, recently reached a crucial milestone by validating the “driver-out” capability of its autonomous trucks on a closed track in Texas.

This achievement places Daimler Truck and Torc Robotics at the forefront of commercially-level autonomous driving, marking a milestone toward the planned 2027 launch of their autonomous trucking solution.

A Major Technological Advancement

This test, conducted at a top speed of 105 km/h, demonstrates that Torc Robotics is ready to transform the trucking industry. Unlike simple technology demonstrations, this product acceptance test shows scalable production capability, an essential element for large-scale commercial adoption. Torc successfully integrated its advanced artificial intelligence, sophisticated system architecture, and redundant safety devices, delivering a reliable and safe product for carriers.

Safety, an Absolute Priority

Joanna Buttler, head of the Autonomous Technology Group at Daimler Truck, emphasizes that the Freightliner Cascadia, the flagship model of Daimler Truck’s autonomous fleet, is an “industry pioneer,” incorporating redundant safety features that ensure maximum public safety. She adds that this achievement demonstrates the joint efforts of Daimler and Torc to integrate cutting-edge technology capable of navigating autonomously in complex and varied environments.

A Step Toward Commercialization

Peter Vaughan Schmidt, CEO of Torc, sees this achievement as a major advancement for their mission: creating a profitable and scalable business as a leading solution for autonomous trucking. This success paves the way for the commercial application of this technology, allowing future customers to benefit from a safe, cost-effective, and user-friendly system.

International Development for an Autonomous Future

Torc Robotics continues to focus on the North American market, but its international development is also underway with testing facilities in the United States, as well as in Germany and Canada. With over 19 years of experience developing safety-critical solutions, Torc Robotics is fully committed to providing carriers with a reliable and high-performance long-haul autonomous trucking solution.

A Vision for the Future of Road Transport

The ambition of Torc Robotics and Daimler Truck is clear: to transform freight transport by optimizing safety, reducing costs, and increasing operational reliability. Autonomous trucking solutions, particularly for long-haul trips, could revolutionize the industry and offer carriers a sustainable and efficient alternative.

By reaching this decisive milestone, Daimler Truck and Torc Robotics illustrate the rapid progress in autonomous trucking. As the technology continues to evolve, it is certain that road transport as we know it today will not be the same tomorrow.

Watch the full video here: https://youtu.be/-K6uyexmgvE

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