Volvo Autonomous Solutions’ Cuklev: End-to-End Autonomous Freight Enters New Phase

Volvo Autonomous Solutions (VAS) is set to enter a new phase in autonomous trucking, with end-to-end shipment from the hub-to-hub model expected to arrive sooner than expected. According to VAS’ head of on-road solutions, Sasko Cuklev, advances in AI technology have enabled the company to map end-to-end lanes much faster than anticipated. VAS plans to launch driverless trucks in the first quarter of 2027 and have 300 operating commercially by year-end. The company is currently working with 10 customers, including DHL, Uber Freight, and DSV, and is expanding its operations beyond Texas. VAS is also discussing both hub-to-hub and end-to-end freight models with customers, with Cuklev noting that end-to-end and hub-to-hub lanes could coexist. The company has built an ecosystem to support smooth operations, with field operators, roadside assistance, dealerships, and its uptime center. VAS has also partnered with two autonomous software solutions providers, Aurora and Waabi, to support customers’ needs. Volvo Group expects 25,000 autonomous tractors to be on the road by 2030 and the total to be more than 220,000 trucks by 2035.