The launch comes amid a challenging period for autonomous driving technology, with setbacks for several companies in the sector. However, the partnership between Waabi and Uber Freight, along with a recent $1 billion investment in autonomous trucking startup Stack AI by Softbank, is seen as positive news for the industry. Uber Freight CEO Lior Ron stated that there is significant demand from shippers for autonomous vehicle technology.
Key takeaways:
- Toronto-based startup Waabi has launched its autonomous semi trucks on Uber Freight's cargo network, marking the company's first revenue-generating business.
- The autonomous trucks, equipped with Waabi’s AI-enabled software and sensors, are currently operating with human backup drivers but will eventually run in full autonomous mode.
- Despite challenges in the autonomous driving tech industry, Waabi's partnership with Uber Freight and Softbank’s recent $1 billion investment in autonomous trucking startup Stack AI are seen as positive developments for the sector.
- Uber Freight, which handles $20 billion of freight, already has autonomous trucks from Aurora in its network, indicating a growing demand for autonomous vehicle technology in the freight industry.