Plus has successfully tested semi-autonomous trucks with IVECO and other logistics partners
By testing the technology, the project partners are paving the way for the future commissioning of semi-autonomous trucks and the testing of fully autonomous driving solutions for logistics. Factory-built self-driving trucks are expected to be commercially available in the US by 2027 and in Europe subsequently.
Californian player Plus successfully completed the testing of its pioneering technology that equips semi-autonomous trucks along with partners such as DSV, dm, and IVECO. According to Plus, the project results demonstrated the key benefits of autonomous trucking technology: improved safety, efficiency and fuel economy.
Plus tested the semi-autonomous IVECO truck in Germany
The partners recently completed the testing of an IVECO truck integrated with Plus’s semi-autonomous driver assistance solution in Krefeld, Germany. It was the first road test of this technology in Germany. After several months of extensive testing and validation of the technology and driver training, the semi-autonomous solution was ready for public road testing. Goods were delivered under real-world conditions on the route between two warehouses in Krefeld and Hennef.
Apparently, the pilot project confirmed the expected findings and assumptions, especially regarding improved safety and reliability. The autonomous driving system consistently demonstrated safe driving behavior, particularly in lane keeping, lane changing, adaptive driving, and dealing with predictable traffic situations.
The semi-autonomous solution truck was developed jointly by leading commercial vehicle manufacturer, IVECO, and Silicon Valley-based self-driving software company, Plus. Equipped with Plus’s AI-based highly automated driving solution together with advanced sensors such as lidar, radar, and cameras, this IVECO S-Way truck offers the driver a 360-degree view around the vehicle and new ways to monitor traffic and the road, increasing safety and comfort.
Factory-built self-driving trucks are expected to be commercially available by 2027
By testing the technology, the project partners are paving the way for the future commissioning of semi-autonomous trucks and the testing of fully autonomous driving solutions for logistics. Factory-built self-driving trucks are expected to be commercially available in the US by 2027 and in Europe subsequently.
“We are proud to celebrate with our innovative partners DSV, dm and IVECO the completion of the pilot, with the safety and efficiency results made possible by our autonomous driving technology. It is even more fitting to do it in Germany, a country which has embraced the benefits of autonomous vehicles. We are excited to bring to market factory-produced self-driving trucks with Plus’s transformative self-driving technology, starting in the US and then in Europe”, said Shawn Kerrigan, COO and co-founder of Plus.
“This successful demonstration marks a further key step in our journey toward the commercialization of highly automated driving technologies in the logistics sector. Through this collaborative pilot, we were able to validate the capabilities of our advanced driver assistance system in real-world operations, confirming improvements in safety, fuel efficiency, and overall driving performance. These results reinforce our belief that automation will not replace the driver, but will elevate their role by reducing fatigue, supporting complex maneuvers, and creating a safer, more productive working environment”, added Marco Liccardo, Chief Technology & Digital Officer, Iveco Group.
