SAN DIEGO — TuSimple, a global self-driving technology company based in San Diego, has announced a partnership with Werner Enterprises to provide roadside service and support to customers operating Level 4 autonomous mode tractors on the TuSimple Autonomous Freight Network.
The network is operational from Arizona to Florida, with more than 11,200 mapped miles and will be expanding to include major logistic routes in its next phase of development, according to a news release.
This integration is part of the TuConnect platform, a major component of the company’s Autonomous Freight Network (AFN).
SAE Level 4 vehicles can intervene if things go wrong or there is a system failure. In this sense, these vehicles do not require human interaction in most circumstances; however, a human still has the option to manually override.
“TuSimple created a (Level 4) self-driving truck that is capable of seeing, processing and reacting faster than a human driver,” said Jim Mullen, chief administrative and legal officer at TuSimple.
“Uncompromised safety and unparalleled service are prerequisites for driver-out operations along the TuSimple autonomous freight network. Our service alignment with Werner Enterprises assures our fleet partners of expedited, safe and efficient service and support.”
Carriers will have their choice of service and support providers, including their preferred dealership, aftermarket service provider, or a Werner Enterprises authorized service center, the news release stated.
“Werner Enterprises’ nationwide network of 24/7 support will play a fundamental role in providing nationwide support to all TuSimple vehicles in operation alongside the rapidly expanding AFN,” the news release stated. “TuSimple is committed to supporting its customers as they develop plans to adopt, integrate and scale AV trucks in their fleets.”
TuSimple will be utilizing Werner Enterprises’ roadside assistance services along the TuSimple AFN to support commercialization in the Texas Triangle during events that require immediate roadside service or maintenance.
The Texas Triangle is a region of Texas that contains the state’s five largest cities and is home to the majority of the state’s population. The triangle is formed by the state’s four main urban centers, Austin, Dallas–Fort Worth, Houston and San Antonio, connected by Interstate 45, Interstate 10 and Interstate 35
“Werner Enterprises delivers world-class supply chain solutions predicated on transporting our customers’ freight in a timely, responsible and safe manner,” Derek Leathers, CEO, Werner Enterprises, said. “TuSimple is advancing the industry and redefining the way freight moves along the TuSimple autonomous freight network. Our alliance will enable TuSimple customers to receive benchmark service and support in the event of a service issue.”
TuSimple will continue to expand its range of service providers to ensure carriers receive a superior level of service and support to meet the unique needs of each individual carrier operating on the TuSimple AFN.
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