Autonomous driving startup Aurora opens first autonomous truck terminal and awaits exemption
Self-driving vehicle startup Aurora has its first commercial autonomous terminal trucks in Texas was opened, thus creating a model for a future network of terminals that will enable driverless transport around the clock.
The new terminal coordinates trucks to move cargo between Dallas and Houston for Aurora’s pilot customers. Customers include FedEx, Schneider and Uber Freight. On these journeys, there is still a person on board. This should be done by 2024, until commercial launch.
Fast data transfer is one of the functions of the new terminal, which will enable driverless operation. On-site fueling stations and maintenance facilities are infrastructure elements that will enable continuous operation of autonomous trucks.
Separately, the company, which employs 1,600 people, is in conflict with the union over its request to use an alternative hazard warning system for parked trucks in place of the state-required reflective triangles or warning lights. A decision on the request for exemption, which was also filed by Waymo, is still pending. Aurora wants to break new ground with this.