US-based Embark Trucks, which is developing autonomous technology for the trucking industry, says that HP has joined its partner development program (PDP) to test and deploy autonomous freight within its carrier network.
HP will test the company’s autonomous semi-trucks in a real-world commercial setting, while providing data and feedback to Embark as it expands the PDP. HP’s first autonomous freight deliveries will see it moving printers from Los Angeles, California, to Phoenix, Arizona.
Embark states that the structure of HP’s network, with relatively long hauls departing from a select set of distribution and manufacturing facilities, makes it particularly well suited to autonomous freight.
“As our partner development program grows, we’re thrilled to bring storied high-tech companies like HP on board,” said Alex Rodrigues, CEO of Embark. “Embark is excited to work with HP to prepare its carrier network to operate Embark self-driving trucks. The upfront time invested in PDP will give HP a meaningful head start when it comes time to scale self-driving technology throughout its logistics operations. Self-driving freight will inevitably help large shippers like HP bring additional speed and efficiency into their supply chains.”
The Embark PDP is an industry ecosystem that brings carriers and shippers together to deploy autonomous freight. To date, shippers including AB InBev and US national carriers including Werner, Bison Transport and Mesilla Valley Transportation have joined the PDP to assess the early benefits provided by autonomous freight.
“HP is driving toward net-zero carbon emissions across our entire value chain by 2040,” said Jessica Kipp, global head of WW Logistics, HP. “Transportation and logistics have an important role to play, and we’re excited to pilot new technologies with Embark that, when combined with electric and alternative fuel vehicles, have the potential to create a far more sustainable fleet and logistics networks than ever before.”