TuSimple and DHL Supply Chain have entered a global partnership to adopt, integrate and scale TuSimple’s autonomous trucking technology into DHL’s logistics operations. The strategic collaboration is part of DHL’s Accelerated Digitalization strategy and focuses on addressing the most pressing challenges facing the logistics industry.
In early December, DHL began daily freight haul operations utilizing TuSimple’s San Antonio-to-Dallas Autonomous Freight Network (AFN). Now, with this extension of the partnership, DHL is disclosing that it has reserved 100 autonomous trucks being co-developed by TuSimple and Navistar in the USA.
The partnership positions DHL at the forefront of autonomous trucking operations and opens the door for collaboration in other markets such as Europe and Asia in the future. With the integration of TuSimple’s L4 technology into its network, DHL aims to leverage the potential of TuSimple’s industry-leading autonomous driving technology specifically designed to meet the unique demands of heavy-duty trucks.
“Partnering with leading-edge technology companies is foundational to our digital transformation strategy, and TuSimple will play a key role in supporting our adoption of next wave transportation solutions,” said Jim Monkmeyer, president, transportation, DHL Supply Chain. “We share TuSimple’s vision of utilizing efficiencies to drive a more sustainable future and have been encouraged by the results so far.”
After establishing the first Autonomous Freight Network in 2020 in the USA, TuSimple has since expanded its operations from Arizona to Florida, with plans to create a nationwide freight transportation network over the next few years. Concurrent with its expansion of the AFN in the USA, TuSimple has initiated efforts in Europe and Asia, where it is testing its autonomous trucks on public roads in Sweden and in Asia at the deep-water port in Shanghai.
“We’re excited to be working with DHL, one of the world’s largest logistics leaders, to help them adopt, integrate and scale our autonomous trucking technology into their operations,” said Cheng Lu, president, and CEO, TuSimple. “This new partnership further validates the appetite for autonomous trucking technology as the industry looks for ways to increase freight capacity, improve safety, and control operating costs.”
Founded in 2015, TuSimple is developing a commercial-ready, fully autonomous (SAE Level 4) driving solution for long-haul heavy-duty trucks. The company’s leading AI technology, which makes it possible for trucks to see 1,000m away, operate nearly continuously and reduce fuel consumption by 10%+ relative to manually driven trucks, according to the company, which is headquartered in San Diego, California, with operations in Arizona, Texas, Europe, and China.