Outrider launches first enterprise-class support services for driverless yard operations
Outrider, a leader in autonomous yard operations, has launched the first enterprise-class support services aimed at enhancing the performance and reliability of driverless yard operations. This initiative is designed to facilitate the commercial rollout of the company’s driverless Outrider System, slated for 2026, enabling Fortune 500 companies to maximize the return on investment from their automation endeavors.
The global market for autonomous yard and shuttle operations is projected to reach an impressive $64 billion. According to ABI Research, this sector is anticipated to grow at a robust rate of 52.7 percent annually through 2030. Major enterprises are increasingly deploying yard automation to cut costs, boost efficiency, and enhance safety across their logistics networks.
Comprehensive Support Services
Outrider’s support services integrate autonomous capabilities with specialized technical assistance to streamline the adoption of this innovative technology. Autonomous functions include the ability to locate misplaced trailers and identify available parking spots. The system proactively alerts site personnel when human intervention is required, such as clearing obstacles blocking parking or dock areas, ensuring safe undocking by closing dock doors, and performing necessary preventative maintenance.
The Outrider System is equipped with self-diagnostic capabilities that track the health of autonomous electric vehicles. These diagnostics monitor critical factors like charge levels, usage patterns, and the frequency of trailer moves, providing insights that exceed traditional yard truck telematics. Should the system face challenges beyond its autonomous capabilities, Outrider’s trained specialists are available for immediate remote support.
Technical support is delivered by experts in autonomous systems and yard operations, who utilize advanced diagnostic tools to monitor and resolve issues efficiently. Insights gained from these interactions are invaluable, as they contribute to the continuous improvement of the AI-powered system, allowing it to handle similar scenarios more effectively in the future.
Enhancing Productivity and Longevity
Bob Hall, the Chief Operating Officer at Outrider, emphasized the strengths of both robots and humans in this context. “Robots excel at performing repetitive, manual tasks in challenging environments like logistics yards, while humans are adept at addressing unexpected issues,” he noted. This dual approach aims to leverage the capabilities of both parties, enhancing the learning process for the robots while ensuring efficient operations.
The Outrider System not only aims to optimize yard productivity but also to extend the lifespan of electric vehicle platforms and trailer fleets. This is achieved through predictable driving patterns, careful tractor-trailer coupling, and smooth docking processes, all of which minimize wear and tear on equipment.
Outrider’s introduction of support services follows a year marked by significant industry milestones, including obtaining SOC 2 Type 2 certification and undergoing a safety review by TÜV SÜD. These achievements further propel the company’s efforts to scale operations and strengthen partnerships with Fortune 500 companies in sectors such as package shipping, e-commerce, retail, consumer packaged goods, and manufacturing.
As the logistics industry continues to embrace automation, Outrider stands at the forefront of this evolution, ready to support its clients in maximizing their technological investments and achieving operational excellence.
