Daimler Truck subsidiary Torc acquires Algolux for AI-based self-driving perception

Torc Robotics, an independent subsidiary of Daimler Truck AG, has signed an agreement to acquire Algolux Inc. Torc is acquiring Algolux for its intellectual property and expertise in the areas of computer vision and machine learning.

“On the path to commercialization of our autonomous-ready Freightliner Cascadia, with Torc’s virtual driver, we never stop improving safety,” said Joanna Buttler, head of the Autonomous Technology Group at Daimler Truck AG. “We are convinced that Algolux, with its perception capabilities, can bring us one step closer to reaching our goal to safely and reliably bring SAE Level 4 autonomous trucks into series production in the USA within this decade.”

Torc has been working closely with Algolux for over a year on multiple perception concepts and methods for improving object detection and distance estimation, including helping Torc's autonomous system correctly identify objects in difficult visual conditions such as low light, fog, or inclement weather. Algolux software is currently operating on initial Freightliner Cascadia test vehicles in the U.S. and is being included in areas of Torc's software development efforts.

“This acquisition brings together Algolux’s end-to-end AI stack, from photons to behavior, with Torc’s pioneering autonomous technology,” said Felix Heide, Algolux CTO. “While many think of autonomous transportation as futuristic, this winning combination will help bring to market a commercially viable, safety-critical long- haul trucking application at scale.”

Algolux is headquartered in Montreal, Canada, with offices in Palo Alto, CA, and Munich, Germany. The transaction will close after the parties complete various pre-closing activities, including any required approvals.