Waymo Adapts Fifth-Generation Hardware for Class 8 Autonomous Trucks
Waymo reveals how it tailors its core autonomous driving platform for heavy freight trucks by extending sensor range and adding robust redundancies. The upgraded hardware allows the Waymo Driver to safely handle the unique challenges of operating large commercial rigs.
Waymo is adapting its fifth-generation autonomous driving hardware specifically for Class 8 trucking to handle the unique demands of heavy freight. By utilizing one core platform called the Waymo Driver, the company transfers millions of miles of passenger car driving experience directly to its fully redundant Freightliner Cascadia trucks. This shared development approach ensures that skills learned in one vehicle type actively improve the performance of the other.
Operating a massive commercial truck requires the Waymo Driver to see objects at much greater distances and in higher definition than a standard passenger vehicle. Because Class 8 trucks are inherently larger and need more time to complete maneuvers safely, the enhanced sensor suite provides the system with adequate time to execute smooth and predictable trajectories on the freeway.
Reliability and comprehensive redundancies are also critical for autonomous trucks that travel hundreds of miles a day without a human driver present. To address the high speeds and heavy cargo involved, Waymo works closely with Daimler Truck to integrate backup mechanisms for braking, steering, computing, and sensors, ensuring the truck safely manages any unplanned events on the road.