Daimler Trucks has signed an agreement to acquire Torc Robotics, a maker of self-driving software for next-generation automobiles.
Torc is developing commercialized automated trucks with Level 4 self-driving capabilities for U.S. roads.
Daimler said because of the rise in demand for cargo transportation, particularly coming from e-commerce, there is a strong business case for self-driving trucks. The company believes that not only will this solve the demand for last-mile logistics, but it will also save lives as a result of eliminating human driving error.
Torc will work with Daimler Trucks to continue to develop its Asimov self-driving software, with testing at Torc’s Blacksburg, Virginia, facility. Meanwhile, Daimler plans to focus on evolving its automated driving technology and vehicle integration for heavy-duty trucks. The company is also working on a truck chassis for automated driving, specifically redundancy of systems needed to provide maximum safety.
After the acquisition, Torc will remain a separate entity and retain the name, team, existing customers and facilities in Blacksburg. With Daimler, Torc will expand its team and customer base into current and other markets.
