Hyundai Motor Company and autonomous driving software specialist Plus have joined forces once again, making waves in the realm of clean transportation technology. Their latest unveiling at the Advanced Clean Transportation (ACT) Expo in Las Vegas has turned heads, marking a significant milestone in the US trucking industry.
The star of the show? None other than Hyundai Motor’s XCIENT Fuel Cell truck, now equipped with Plus’s Level 4 SuperDrive autonomous driving system. This groundbreaking collaboration signals the debut of the first Level 4 autonomous Class 8 hydrogen fuel cell electric truck in the United States.
Attendees at the ACT Expo were treated to an exciting announcement, as Hyundai and Plus showcased their innovative creation amidst a backdrop of enthusiasm for clean energy and advanced mobility solutions. The event, renowned for its focus on clean transportation technology and fleet management, provided the perfect platform for this groundbreaking revelation.
The XCIENT Fuel Cell truck, a testament to Hyundai’s commitment to innovation and sustainability, is set to undergo initial autonomous driving tests in the US. This marks a pivotal moment, as it signifies the first Level 4 autonomous trial for a Class 8 fuel cell electric truck in the country. The implications are profound, offering a glimpse into the future of freight transportation.
Shawn Kerrigan, COO and co-founder at Plus, expressed pride in their contribution to this transformative endeavor. He highlighted the potential of autonomous hydrogen fuel cell trucks to revolutionize the industry, enhancing safety, efficiency, and sustainability along the way.
Hyundai’s XCIENT Fuel Cell truck, introduced in 2020, has already made its mark on the global stage, operating in commercial capacities across eight countries. Its proven reliability and practical application serve as a testament to its prowess in real-world settings.
Powering the autonomous capabilities of the XCIENT Fuel Cell truck is Plus’s SuperDrive system, a marvel of technological ingenuity. Utilizing advanced sensors such as lidar, radar, and cameras, SuperDrive enables surround perception, planning, prediction, and autonomous driving capabilities. With deployments in the US, Europe, and Australia, Plus has established itself as a leader in the field of autonomous driving technology.
Martin Zeilinger, executive vice president and head of commercial vehicle development at Hyundai, expressed excitement about the collaboration with Plus. He emphasized the company’s dedication to enhancing road safety and freight efficiencies through the integration of autonomous driving technology into the XCIENT Fuel Cell truck.
As the world shifts towards a decarbonized future, the partnership between Hyundai and Plus stands as a beacon of progress. Their combined efforts represent a bold step towards realizing a vision of cleaner, safer, and more efficient transportation. With autonomous hydrogen fuel cell trucks leading the charge, the future of freight mobility looks brighter than ever before.
