Plus Automation and Churchill IX merge to form PlusAI, with AI-led virtual drivers for autonomous trucking

Plus Automation and Churchill Capital Cop IX have announced a definitive business combination agreement that will see the two companies merge to form PlusAI. The new entity will focus on delivering an AI-based virtual driver software, SuperDrive, specifically for commercial trucks. 

SuperDrive uses AI models to develop its codebase rather than relying on traditional manual programming – which the company reports as being a key factor in the scalability and adaptability of the programmes.  

The software has already been used in real-world semi-autonomous trails, including partnerships with logistics provider DSV and truck manufacturer IVECO. These tests focused on depot-to-depot runs, and according to Peter Matthiesen, senior director, group innovation, mobility & truck technology at DSV, the technology can “improve safety, efficiency and fuel consumption” across commercial fleets if introduced.  

In addition to IVECO, PlusAI supplies the software to Traton Group and Hyundai for use in their fleets. The company reports that partnering with OEMs would allow software adoption to scale up as required through integration with established manufacturing and servicing processes. It also lists partnerships with similarly established suppliers such as Bosch and NVIDIA for the hardware required for the software integration. 

Parallel developments in the sector indicate a broader readiness for autonomous logistics. For instance, depot-to-depot runs – similar to those tested with DSV – are also being explored in inbound logistics by other players. Bridgestone Americas, in collaboration with tier-one supplier Kodiak and LSP JB Hunt, completed a series of autonomous tyre deliveries in the US. 

There is also interest in outbound applications. Asparuh Koev, founder and CEO of predictive analytics firm Transmetrics, noted the role of AI-powered tools and autonomous trucks in FVL, particularly for enhancing dynamic routing and decision-making in short-haul scenarios. 

Industry interest in autonomous technology is also influenced by ongoing labour challenged. Michael Klein, chairman and CEO of Churchill IX, remarked: “Trucking is the backbone of the global economy but the industry faces a persistent driver shortage that autonomous trucking has the potential to solve.”  

Matthiesen added that the shortage is forecast to rise to 700,000 drivers by 2027, but adopting such technology “will significantly improve the working environment, reduce mental and physical fatigue, increase safety and enable a significantly more diverse driver pool.” 

Commenting on previous real-world tests, Matthiesen stated that autonomous and AI technologies are “perfectly suitable” when “sufficient data is available”.