Torc Robotics, a subsidiary of Daimler Truck AG and a leader in the commercialization of self-driving vehicle technology, has announced significant advancements in the validation of its autonomous trucks. Earlier this year, the company successfully conducted a series of driverless tests on a multi-lane closed course, achieving full operational speeds of up to 65 mph to enhance fuel efficiency. This milestone, part of Torc’s product acceptance testing, represents a crucial step towards scaling and commercializing safe and robust autonomous trucking solutions, with a target date set for 2027. Unlike typical demonstrations, this achievement emphasizes Torc’s transition into a phase of scalable product release, showcasing the integration of applied artificial intelligence (AI), advanced system architecture, production-ready embedded hardware, and rigorous safety engineering. These elements come together to create a product focused on software best practices and safer roadways for everyone.
Torc’s Chief Technology Officer, CJ King, stated, “While artificial intelligence has become a significant buzzword this year, its practical applications are still limited. Autonomous trucking stands out as one of the most tangible uses of AI, capable of generating revenue and transforming industries. Torc is at the forefront of developing a solution that prioritizes safety, scalability, and cost efficiency.” He emphasized that this milestone underscores Torc’s commitment to safety in advancing the future of freight.
This achievement marks a pivotal moment in Torc’s mission to establish a profitable and scalable business as the leading provider of autonomous solutions. CEO Peter Vaughan Schmidt remarked, “We have witnessed impressive reliability during our driverless trials, utilizing Torc’s exceptional embedded and integrated platform on Daimler Truck’s Freightliner Cascadia. We are excited to unlock the full potential of autonomous driving software for customers who value safety, operational cost-effectiveness, ease of use, and reliability.