FCA Developing Self-Driving Commercial Vehicles

Fiat Chrysler Automobiles has partnered with self-driving startup Aurora to develop self-driving commercial vehicles that could potentially be used to deliver packages to consumers.

FCA plans to integrate the company's Aurora Driver self-driving platform into its commercial vehicles. The platform consists of hardware, software, and data services that safely guide vehicles through streets and highways. The platform delivers Level 4 autonomy, meaning it can operate without human input or oversight under specifically defined conditions.

"Aurora brings a unique skill set combined with advanced and purposeful technology that complements and enhances our approach to self-driving," said Mike Manley, FCA's CEO.

The two parties are seeing an opportunity to offer "a variety of customized solutions" for commercial vehicle customers, because "changing lifestyles and online shopping patterns are creating logistical opportunities," according to an FCA release.

FCA and Aurora signed a memorandum of understanding, FCA announced. on June 10.

"We are thrilled to forge a partnership with FCA US to develop a meaningful business model for delivering the benefits of self-driving commercial vehicles," said Sterling Anderson, Aurora's co-founder and chief product officer.