US startup Humble Robotics develops autonomous truck without semi-trailer

A whole host of companies have been working on automating trucks for years, including Waymo. They all build autonomous driving systems into the semi-trailer truck. But why? The US company Humble Robotics is pursuing a more radical approach.

Why does a truck need a semi-trailer or a cab if no one is sitting in it anyway? Accordingly, the company from the US state of California focuses on what matters: its autonomous truck, the “Humble Hauler,” is a self-driving loading platform.

The Humble Hauler will be a Class-8 truck, which will be available in various versions: a long version with four axles for 40- and 53-foot containers, and a short version with three axles, onto which a 20-foot container can fit. However, Humble Robotics envisions that other superstructures could also be mounted, such as a tank or a concrete mixer. The trailer can also be pulled conventionally by a tractor unit.

Cameras, Lidar, and Radar

For environmental perception, the company equips the Hauler with cameras, lidar, and radar. An artificial intelligence is supposed to process the sensor data and control the vehicle.

The vehicle is electrically powered. The company states the range as 200 miles, around 320 kilometers. The maximum speed is said to be 55 miles per hour, just under 90 kilometers per hour.

The first version of the vehicle is intended for use in designated areas, such as container terminals in ports, warehouses, or freight yards. However, an animation on the company's website suggests that long-haul operations may also be possible at a later date.

The still young company has just raised $24 million in seed capital. Its employees have already gained experience at other important companies in the industry, including Apple, Google, Rivian, Tesla, and Uber.

It is not known when the first Humble Hauler will be ready.

(wpl)