Daimler Trucks North America (DTNA) has introduced the Freightliner Inspiration Truck, the first licensed autonomous commercial truck to operate on an open public highway in the US.
The company secured a license from the Nevada Department of Motor Vehicles to operate the vehicle in the state, following completion of extensive testing. It is designed to reduce accidents, improve fuel consumption, cut highway congestion, and safeguard the environment.
The Freightliner Inspiration Truck's design enables it to run on highways under Level 3 of autonomous vehicle capabilities, enabling the driver to leave full control of all safety-critical functions under certain traffic or environmental conditions
Nevada Governor Brian Sandoval said: "The Nevada Department of Motor Vehicles has been closely monitoring the advancements being made in autonomous vehicle development and reviewed DTNA's safety, testing and training plans before granting permission for this demonstration of the Freightliner Inspiration Truck."
The new truck features Highway Pilot sensors, which links a set of camera technology and radar systems with lane stability, collision avoidance, speed control, braking, steering and other monitoring systems as well as autonomous vehicle capabilities.
The truck's computer hardware is based upon a series production Freightliner Cascadia Evolution, which is fully certified to meet all US Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards.
DTNA sales and marketing senior vice-president Richard Howard said: "Freightliner Trucks does more than any other commercial truck manufacturer to integrate the truck, the driver and the business.
"With the Freightliner Inspiration Truck, drivers can optimize their time on the road while also handling other important logistical tasks, from scheduling to routing.
"The autonomous vehicle technology not only contributes to improved safety and efficiency, but allows for improved communication through connectivity and integration."
