Outrider, a frontrunner in the automation of yard operations for logistics facilities, has recently introduced the industry’s inaugural enterprise-class support services aimed at optimizing the functionality and uptime of driverless yard operations. This innovation is crucial for large organizations that depend on logistics, as the enterprise-class services are designed to ensure that Fortune 500 companies fully capitalize on their investments in automation. The upcoming rollout of these services coincides with the commercial deployment of Outrider's driverless system in 2026.
In recent comments, Todd Lewis, Senior Vice President at Prologis Ventures, highlighted the significance of automation extending beyond just warehouse operations, making substantial inroads into logistics yards. "Outrider is leading this remarkable shift by offering state-of-the-art technologies along with comprehensive support services that guarantee smooth logistics operations around the clock," he stated.
According to ABI Research, the global market for autonomous yard and shuttle operations is currently estimated at an impressive $64 billion and is anticipated to grow at an astonishing rate of 52.7% through 2030. This surge in growth can be attributed to large enterprises that are increasingly adopting and integrating yard automation solutions throughout their logistics frameworks to reduce expenses, enhance efficiency, and improve safety standards.
Among the chief features of Outrider’s support services are their self-sufficient, autonomous capabilities. For instance, the system can independently locate misplaced trailers or find available parking spaces. If a situation arises that requires human intervention—such as clearing blocked parking or dock spots, safely closing dock doors for vehicles, or conducting preventative maintenance—the system instantly alerts site personnel for assistance. Additionally, the system is equipped with self-diagnostic capabilities that monitor the overall health of autonomous electric vehicles, assessing factors like charge levels and vehicle usage, which far outperform traditional yard truck telematics.
In cases where the system encounters challenges it cannot address autonomously or with the help of personnel, a specialized team from Outrider is available to provide prompt technical support. These trained professionals utilize advanced diagnostic tools to oversee, identify, troubleshoot, and resolve issues remotely, thus maintaining the functionality of the system. The data collected during these technical support interactions is instrumental in further enhancing the AI-driven system, allowing it to handle similar challenges more effectively in subsequent instances.
Bob Hall, the Chief Operating Officer of Outrider, remarked, "Robots excel in executing repetitive, manual tasks, particularly in challenging environments such as logistics yards, while humans are adept at resolving unique edge cases. Our innovative support model leverages these strengths, allowing our robotic systems to develop capabilities for managing increasingly complex tasks."
The Outrider System not only maximizes the operational productivity of yards but also significantly extends the lifespan of both the electric vehicle platforms and the trailer fleets of its customers. This is accomplished through predictable driving behaviors, gentle coupling between tractors and trailers, and smooth docking procedures, all of which mitigate wear and tear on yard trucks and trailers.
As a pioneer in autonomous electric yard operations, Outrider's recent launch of these support services follows a timeline marked by several firsts in the industry, including achieving SOC 2 Type 2 certification, the completion of a TÜV SÜD safety review, and the implementation of reinforcement learning AI. Together, these milestones are accelerating Outrider's go-to-market strategies and fostering deeper engagements with Fortune 500 clients across sectors such as package shipping, e-commerce, consumer packaged goods, and manufacturing.
About Outrider
Outrider is a leading entity focused on automating comprehensive yard operations for logistics hubs, specifically aimed at enhancing safety and improving efficiency for large-scale enterprises. Unique in its dedication to automating every aspect of yard operations, Outrider collaborates with logistics-dependent firms to eliminate hazardous and repetitive manual tasks. The company is driven by a mission to facilitate the swift adoption of sustainable freight transportation through the deployment of zero-emission systems. Representing over 20% of all yard trucks operating in North America, Outrider is a private entity backed by notable investors including NEA, 8VC, Koch Disruptive Technologies, and FM Capital. For further information, visit
www.outrider.ai.