Research Note: Autonomous Trucking Technology
Market
Autonomous trucking technology uses advanced sensors, artificial intelligence, and control systems to enable trucks to operate with minimal or no human intervention. The global autonomous truck market was valued at $1.5 billion in 2022 and is projected to reach $13.6 billion by 2030, growing at a CAGR of 32.3% (Fortune Business Insights). This rapid growth is driven by increasing demand for enhanced logistics efficiency, the ongoing driver shortage, and potential safety improvements. Major components include LiDAR, radar, cameras, GPS, high-definition mapping, and powerful onboard computers running machine learning algorithms for perception and decision-making.
The industry is expanding quickly due to significant investments from established automakers, technology companies, and startups. In 2023, over $1 billion was invested in autonomous trucking companies (McKinsey). Adoption is accelerating as the technology matures and regulatory frameworks develop, with companies like Waymo, TuSimple, and Aurora conducting extensive on-road testing. The potential for 24/7 operations, reduced labor costs, and improved fuel efficiency are compelling economic drivers, with BCG estimating autonomous technology could reduce long-haul trucking costs by over 30%.
Trends
Key trends shaping the industry include the development of transfer hub networks to enable autonomous highway driving combined with human-driven first and last mile delivery, improved sensor fusion techniques for enhanced perception in challenging conditions, and advancements in AI for more robust decision-making. The convergence of autonomy with electrification is also gaining momentum, as companies explore synergies between these technologies to further improve efficiency and sustainability in freight transportation.
Major Autonomous Trucking Technology Vendors
Waymo (Alphabet/Google)
TuSimple
Aurora Innovation
Embark Technology
Plus.ai
Kodiak Robotics
Torc Robotics (Daimler Truck)
Ike Robotics (acquired by Nuro)
Einride
Gatik
Locomation
Inceptio Technology
Outrider
Robotic Research
Volvo Autonomous Solutions
Scania (part of Traton Group)
Navistar (part of Traton Group)
Paccar (working with Aurora)
Uber Advanced Technologies Group (acquired by Aurora)
Nvidia (provides hardware/software platforms)
Intel/Mobileye
ZF
Bosch
Continental
Aptiv
Argo AI (Ford and Volkswagen-backed, now defunct but tech acquired)
Waabi
Pronto.ai
Starsky Robotics (now defunct)
Peloton Technology
Ghost Locomotion
Ottomotto (acquired by Uber, then part of sale to Aurora)
Daimler Trucks North America
Peterbilt (part of Paccar)
Kenworth (part of Paccar)
Tesla (with its Semi program)
Hyundai Mobis
Autonomous Solutions Inc. (ASI)
EasyMile
Locomotion