Aurora Innovation recently announced a key appointment and the expansion of its commercial footprint and operations across two high-volume freight lanes in the US, representing what it says is significant progress toward realization of its autonomous trucking product.
Kendra Phillips has joined the company to lead its trucking and logistics partner programs. She brings 16 years of experience in the logistics industry, having worked across strategy, business, operations, product development and service delivery. In her most recent role, Phillips served as the CTO and VP of new products at logistics specialist Ryder System.
Phillips will play a leading role in launching Aurora Shield, the suite of operational tools and support services including roadside assistance and hardware support packages designed to maximize uptime and ensure efficient utilization of fleets powered by the Aurora Driver. She will also work closely with Aurora’s logistics partners including FedEx, Uber Freight, US Xpress and Werner to deliver its autonomous trucking product suite.
Aurora is also expanding its commercial footprint along the US interstate system to connect the country’s most voluminous trucking lanes. It is now autonomously hauling goods for FedEx, Werner and Uber Freight customers day and night and has opened three new terminals in El Paso, Fort Worth and Houston in Texas.