Torc Robotics is working towards implementing its autonomous trucks across various locations with different equipment configurations, as shared by an executive during a discussion with Trucking Dive.
Permission granted by Torc Robotics
During an interview at the Manifest Vegas 2024 conference in early February, Walter Grigg, the head of industry partnerships at Torc, discussed a new testing route, the increased testing in New Mexico, and offered insights into the rapidly changing autonomous trucking landscape.
Current Partnerships
Grigg highlighted that Torc has publicly announced partnerships with companies such as Schneider and C.R. England, while also collaborating with numerous others that are not yet publicly disclosed. The company also benefits from a large advisory council consisting of many key players in the industry.
Testing Locations
Although based in Blacksburg, Virginia, Torc primarily conducts significant testing in Albuquerque, New Mexico, leveraging the I-40 corridor for its diverse testing conditions. This area offers a challenging environment with urban traffic, long stretches of road, and complex terrain, which are ideal for training their autonomous vehicles.
Product Development Timeline
The focus on developing a minimum viable product (MVP) is ongoing, with an emphasis on safety, economic viability, and the ability to scale commercially. Grigg indicated that there is anticipation for a defined trade lane announcement soon as they shift to a more streamlined testing approach.
Future Aspirations
Torc aims for significant advancements by the end of 2024, including deploying early-production vehicles across different locations. Grigg emphasized that they plan to address various challenges encountered while operating in real-world scenarios.
Continuous Improvement and Safety
In discussing the future, Grigg encouraged trucking executives to familiarize themselves with the autonomous industry and recognize the key players. He reaffirmed Torc’s commitment to safety, stating that any testing on public roads would strictly adhere to rigorous safety protocols to ensure public protection.
