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Aurora to add night driving, new routes as it ramps driverless trucking

Aurora Innovation plans to expand its driverless trucking operations by adding night driving and new routes, including Houston, El Paso, and Phoenix, by late 2025. The company, which has successfully operated more than 4,000 miles of freight without a driver, aims to scale up to “tens of trucks” by 2025. Aurora reported a 54% increase in pilot revenue year-over-year despite operating at a loss and announced a shift towards a driver-as-a-service model by 2027.

Key points

  • Aurora to add night driving and operate in adverse weather by H2 2025.
  • Expansion of routes to include Houston, El Paso, and Phoenix.
  • More than 4,000 miles completed without a human driver.
  • Currently operates two driverless trucks, with plans for tens by 2025.
  • Pilot revenue up 54% year-over-year to $871,000.
  • Resignation of co-founder Sterling Anderson noted.
  • Aurora plans to shift to a driver-as-a-service model by 2027.

Why it matters

  • The rise of autonomous vehicles aligns with trends in transportation technology, particularly emphasizing safety and efficiency.
  • Historical shifts in trucking practices, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, have accelerated the interest in automation.
  • 2025 is projected to be a significant year for tech advancements, with driverless technology expected to transform logistics and supply chains.

Aurora's ambitious plans for expanding driverless trucking highlight a significant leap towards automation in the industry, with its moves expected to reshape freight logistics by 2025. Despite current financial losses, the company's increasing revenues signal growth potential in the autonomous vehicle market.