Autonomous trucking company TuSimple recently achieved a significant milestone by successfully completing a fully autonomous run of a semi-truck on public roads in China. The test, conducted without a human present in the vehicle and without any human intervention, marks China’s first “driver-out” run, according to TuSimple.
This is the second time TuSimple has conducted a driverless operation on public roads, with the first instance taking place in December 2021 in Arizona, United States. However, the company did not attempt to recreate the test in the US. In China, the autonomous truck navigated a 40-mile stretch, including urban and highway environments, as well as various weather conditions such as fog and crosswinds. The route covered locations approved by the Shanghai government, including Yangshan Deep-water Port Logistics Park and Donghai Bridge.
TuSimple did not provide specific details on whether the autonomous system operated flawlessly throughout the entire run or if any issues were encountered. The company also did not explain the reasons behind its decision to not conduct another driver-out run in the US or disclose any plans for future fully autonomous tests.
This move in China indicates that TuSimple is placing increased focus on its Asian operations, particularly after deciding to retain its China unit. The company had previously considered selling its China division due to regulatory scrutiny in the US but ultimately decided to keep it. TuSimple has undergone several executive shakeups and faced layoffs, primarily affecting its US-based staff.
Additionally, TuSimple recently began testing its self-driving trucks in Japan, demonstrating further investment in Asian markets. Despite the positive news, the company’s stock experienced a temporary 11% increase following the announcement but has since declined. TuSimple is currently at risk of delisting from the Nasdaq exchange due to its failure to file the last two quarterly results on time. A hearing is scheduled for June 22.
