Tyson Foods and a logistics partner have begun to deploy autonomous refrigerated box trucks operating 18 hours a day on Tyson routes in northwest Arkansas. It’s one way to face a nationwide driver shortage, among other issues.
The deliveries began this week. Gatik AI Inc., a provider of autonomous middle mile logistics, announced the multi-year collaboration with the meat company. Their trucks deliver Tyson, Jimmy Dean and BallPark products, among others, to the company’s distribution and storage facilities in the Rogers and Springdale, Ark., areas.
A safety driver initially will be present in the cab to monitor the autonomous system and take command of operating the truck if required. The autonomous trucks are equipped with a 26-foot temperature-controlled box, purpose-built to transport refrigerated and frozen goods quickly and safely and multiple sensor modalities that are custom-designed for fail-safe short-haul B2B operations.
They operate on predetermined short-haul, repeated routes. In addition to the labor savings, Gatik says autonomous trucks operate with increased efficiency and sustainability, leading to reduced emissions and enhanced fuel economy. Both sides said there is the potential for expansion at other Tyson locations.
