Embark, a leading developer of autonomous technology for the trucking industry, launches its Partner Development Program with Werner Enterprises, Mesilla Valley Transportation, and Bison Transport. The program brings Embark and leading carriers together to work on autonomous trucking technology that will improve speed and reliability for customers, along with safety and work-flexibility for professional truck drivers.
Embark aims to refine and scale the software and support services necessary to enable carriers to own and operate Embark-equipped OEM trucks on select US freight lanes via this program. At the core of Embark’s product offering to carriers is the Embark Driver, a per-mile software license that can safely navigate a carrier-owned, Embark-equipped OEM truck from its origin to destination. Additionally, Embark will provide carriers with an autonomous fleet management solution, Embark Guardian, that provides remote vehicle monitoring, dispatching, and access to real-time data such as weather and construction. Together, Embark Driver and Embark Guardian will enable carriers to deploy and manage a fleet of autonomous trucks within their existing networks.
Alex Rodrigues, Chief Executive Officer and Co-Founder, Embark, said: “Embark’s commitment to having carriers purchase and operate our autonomous trucks, while Embark provides a software subscription and support services, is a win-win because it leverages the logistical expertise of the carrier, allows the technology to scale more quickly through existing shipper-carrier relationships and enables Embark to focus on delivering a safe and reliable autonomous truck. The learnings Embark has, gained from hundreds of hauls with shippers and carriers over the years has helped us shape this new business model, and we are excited to announce it today.”
As part of the program, carriers will work alongside Embark to test and refine various facets of the overall operating model, including remote vehicle monitoring, vehicle maintenance procedures, teleoperations, AV dispatching rules, and transfer hub logistics. Werner Enterprises, Mesilla Valley Transportation, Bison Transport, and other leading carriers bring a nationwide network for testing and decades of operational, regulatory, and safety experience.
Derek Leathers, Vice Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer, Werner Enterprises, said: “While Werner has always been a first mover in the transportation industry, we continue to invest in new technology and solutions that enrich the experience for drivers, shippers, and carriers while optimizing the entire ecosystem. By working with Embark, we amplify the voice of our drivers and our customers, allowing them to be an important part of the conversation around the innovation that impacts the future of our industry.”
In addition to preparing carriers to operate autonomous trucks, the program is engaging OEMs, real estate developers, and maintenance providers to coordinate the set of products and services carriers, needs to operate a nationwide network of autonomous freight lanes.
