Torc Robotics, a pioneer in commercializing self-driving Class 8 trucks and an independent subsidiary of Daimler Truck AG, has formed a strategic alliance with the Stanford Center for AI Safety to advance safety standards in autonomous trucking technology.
The membership, announced on June 17, 2025, will allow Torc to sponsor, collaborate in, and coauthor research with Stanford's AI Safety center, providing direct access to research findings as they happen. This partnership comes at a critical time as Torc prepares for its planned commercial market entry in 2027.
"Torc is proud to join the Stanford Center for AI Safety, reinforcing our mission to deliver safe, scalable, and trustworthy autonomous solutions," said Steve Kenner, Chief Safety Officer at Torc. "This membership aligns with our commitment to advancing rigorous safety practices in AI development and supports our goal of providing highly reliable technology to our customers."
The Stanford Center for AI Safety focuses on developing robust safety protocols and advanced machine learning techniques to mitigate risks in autonomous systems. As a member, Torc will gain access to research symposiums, seminars, and other benefits that will help enhance the safety protocols of machine learning models within its autonomous driving systems.
"Collaborating with members in our affiliates program allows us to apply our research in AI safety to real-world challenges," commented Duncan Eddy, Director of the Stanford Center for AI Safety. "Our work with Torc will include efforts to enhance the safety and reliability of autonomous driving systems, ultimately contributing to the advancement of this transformative technology."
This collaboration comes amid significant growth in the autonomous trucking sector, which faces challenges including regulatory uncertainty, cybersecurity risks, and public trust concerns. With the global autonomous truck market expected to reach substantial valuations by 2035, partnerships between industry leaders and academic institutions are becoming increasingly important to address safety concerns and accelerate the development of reliable autonomous technology.
Torc, founded in 2005 and headquartered in Blacksburg, Virginia, has over 20 years of experience in pioneering safety-critical, self-driving applications and is currently focusing on commercializing autonomous trucks for long-haul applications in the U.S.