ZF announced it has developed a redundant steering system for autonomous truck maker Kodiak AI, which will enhance the safety of its growing fleet of driverless trucks.
The companies had a pre-existing relationship, with Kodiak AI most recently ordering 100 steering systems with redundant components so it can grow its trucking fleet. ZF has been supplying the system since earlier this year.
“At ZF, our goal is to offer innovative solutions designed to enhance the autonomous vehicle industry by incorporating redundant components and moving towards fail-safe steering systems, enhancing safety, precision, and AI-driven functionality,” said Praful Bari, head of application engineering, commercial vehicle solutions, ZF.
“This includes the development of cutting-edge technologies like redundant ReAX, our adaptive electronic steering assist system and our next-generation electric power steering, which enables ZF and our partners to explore new possibilities in autonomous mobility.”
Kodiak unveiled its sixth-generation truck in January 2024, which included ZF’s redundant steering actuators controlled by Kodiaks’ autonomous system.
If the primary steering actuator fails, the truck seamlessly switches to the secondary actuator.
“Praful and his team at ZF have been fantastic partners to Kodiak since day one, and they have worked tirelessly to get us exactly what we needed to meet our safety standards for a redundant autonomous system,” said Jamie Hoffacker, vice president of hardware, Kodiak AI. “These innovations have been pivotal in the commercialization of driverless semi-trucks, and are contributing to advancements in safety, efficiency, and environmental responsibility in the commercial vehicle sector.
