Daimler Delivers Self-Driving Trucks To Torc Robotics For Testing On Texas Highways

This version of the Cascadia includes redundant systems for braking and steering. The vehicle is built to support SAE Level 4 autonomous driving, with features designed to meet specific engineering requirements. The platform includes a second set of electronically controlled systems and an integrated power network. The trucks are produced with necessary computing and sensor equipment installed at the factory, which allows Torc Robotics to add its virtual driver software after delivery.

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The updated Freightliner Cascadia includes changes related to braking, lighting and safety systems. Fuel efficiency data shared by the company shows a reported improvement since the model was first launched in 2007.

Torc will operate these trucks on routes in Texas, including a lane between Laredo and Dallas along Interstate 35. The company already tests on roads in New Mexico, Texas and Arizona. The Laredo-Dallas route includes freight traffic through cities such as San Antonio and Austin.

Torc has signed a lease for a facility in the Dallas-Fort Worth area. This site will be used for vehicle testing, freight operations, and preparation for commercial use.

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In 2024, Torc completed test runs without a driver on a multi-lane track in Texas. Daimler Truck and Torc plan to continue development of the vehicles for public road testing without a driver.

The companies have stated a goal to introduce SAE Level 4 autonomous trucks in the U.S. by 2027. The vehicles are intended to operate between freight terminals without human drivers. According to Daimler Truck, autonomous vehicles may be used to address issues such as freight volume and driver availability.

Joanna Buttler, Head of Autonomous Technology Group at Daimler Truck, said, “Delivering the latest iteration of our autonomous-ready vehicle platform, including production-intent autonomy hardware to Torc marks a significant milestone for Daimler Truck towards series maturity and scaling”.