Waymo, Daimler to partner in developing self-driving semi trucks

A file photo of a Daimler Freightliner Inspiration self-driving truck. Daimler Trucks North America and rival PACCAR together control more than 70% of the US Class 8 heavy truck sector, according to Stark. — AP

DETROIT: Daimler AG’s commercial truck unit and Alphabet Inc’s Waymo on Oct 27 said they will collaborate on development of self-driving Class 8 semi trucks, applying Waymo’s automated system to Daimler’s Freightliner Cascadia.

Class 8 trucks are semi trucks and other large commercial vehicles with a carrying capacity exceeding 33,000 lb (14,969 kg).