Torc Robotics, a leading self-driving technology company and subsidiary of Daimler Truck, has announced a major milestone: the successful validation of its driverless trucks on a multi-lane, closed-course test environment in Texas, USA.
During rigorous testing at speeds of up to 65 mph (about 105 km/h), the trials showcased Torc’s advancements in autonomous vehicle technology. This achievement is a critical step toward scaling and commercializing reliable and safe autonomous trucking solutions by 2027. Unlike a mere demonstration, this milestone signals Torc’s readiness for scalable product deployment, featuring integrated artificial intelligence, advanced system architecture, production-ready hardware, and a robust safety framework. The validation highlights the company’s dedication to developing technology that upholds stringent safety and quality standards, ensuring safer roads through innovative software practices.
Joanna Buttler, Head of the Autonomous Technology Group at Daimler Truck, praised the accomplishment, stating: “The autonomous-ready Freightliner Cascadia, equipped with redundant safety features, sets an industry benchmark and paves the way for the future of autonomous driving. Achieving driver-out capability on a closed course is a remarkable achievement by the Torc and Daimler Truck teams, demonstrating the progress made toward scalable autonomous trucking.”
Peter Vaughan Schmidt, CEO of Torc, emphasized the significance of this breakthrough: “This milestone marks a pivotal moment in our mission to build a scalable and profitable business as the world’s premier autonomous trucking solution. We were impressed by the system’s reliability during repeated driverless runs, made possible by Torc’s state-of-the-art embedded platform integrated into Daimler Truck’s Freightliner Cascadia. We’re excited to deliver software that maximizes safety, operational efficiency, and reliability for our customers.”
Driver-out validation marks a fundamental achievement in bringing autonomous trucks closer to commercial reality. Previously, Torc and Daimler Truck conducted tests with both a safety driver and an operator in the cab, ready to take control if needed. The companies have demonstrated that Torc’s autonomous driving software can safely handle complex road conditions, including highways, surface streets, ramps, and controlled intersections.
