San Antonio, September 10, 2025
News Summary
International Motors has initiated fleet trials of its second-generation autonomous trucks along the I-35 corridor between Dallas and Laredo, Texas. The project utilizes the updated PlusAI SuperDrive platform and new multimodal sensors on International LT Series trucks. The trials aim to optimize freight routes and improve operational efficiency by gathering feedback from fleet operators. This initiative reflects the growing trend toward automation in the trucking industry and represents a significant advancement for International Motors in the autonomous vehicle sector.
San Antonio
International Motors launches fleet trials for autonomous trucks along I-35 corridor
What happened: International Motors is beginning fleet trials of its second-generation autonomous trucks along the I-35 corridor between Dallas and Laredo, Texas. The pilot will be conducted with selected fleet operators and managed from International Motors’ autonomous hub in San Antonio. The program uses the updated PlusAI SuperDrive platform and a new sensor and computing suite installed on International LT Series trucks powered by the S13 Integrated Powertrain.
Key details
- Location: I-35 corridor (Dallas to Laredo), managed from San Antonio.
- Partnership: International Motors is partnering with PlusAI, a California company that provides AI-based virtual driver software.
- Technology: Trials use the updated PlusAI SuperDrive platform with a new computer and sensor suite; trucks are fitted with a multimodal sensor kit including imaging radar, lidar, and cameras for 360-degree visibility.
- Vehicles: Autonomy systems installed on International LT Series trucks powered by the S13 Integrated Powertrain.
- Objective: Gather real-world feedback from fleet operators, refine the system, optimize freight routes, and improve safety and operational efficiency.
How the technology works
The autonomous stack in the trial relies on a combination of hardware and AI-based software. The SuperDrive platform is trained using real-world driving data and applies end-to-end AI models to adapt to different routes, geographies, and driving conditions. The multimodal sensor kit—comprising imaging radar, lidar, and cameras—provides continuous 360-degree coverage to support driving decisions. The new compute platform processes sensor inputs and runs the AI models that command vehicle control during the trials.
Purpose of the trials
The pilot program aims to validate performance on a busy freight corridor, obtain operational feedback from participating fleet operators, and identify ways to reduce operating costs through improved routing and automation. International Motors plans to use close collaboration with customers to refine the system and demonstrate commercial viability. Trial results will inform further development and potential broader deployment.
Supporting context
The I-35 corridor, stretching from Dallas to Laredo, is a major freight route that connects regional distribution centers and border crossings. North Texas in particular has been an active testing ground for autonomous trucking, with several other companies having conducted trials and pilot programs in the region. Conducting fleet trials in this corridor provides exposure to a mix of highway conditions, traffic patterns, and freight operations that are relevant to long-haul commercial use.
International Motors’ move into autonomous trucking marks a significant step in the company’s technology program. The company has a long industrial history dating back to the early 19th century and currently employs about 15,000 people. International Motors is part of the TRATON GROUP, a larger commercial vehicle group that includes other truck makers.
Industry implications
These fleet trials reflect broader industry trends toward automation and connected freight systems. Successful pilots could lead to more efficient route planning, reduced operating expenses, and enhanced safety features for long-haul trucking. At the same time, the trials are designed to gather practical feedback from operators to address real-world operational challenges and regulatory and safety considerations.
Next steps
The pilot period will focus on data collection, operator feedback, and iterative improvements to both hardware and software components. International Motors and its partners will analyze trial outcomes to determine scalability and potential timelines for wider commercial rollout.
FAQ
What is being tested?
Second-generation autonomous driving systems installed on International LT Series trucks, using the PlusAI SuperDrive platform and a multimodal sensor suite.
Where are the trials taking place?
Trials run along the I-35 corridor between Dallas and Laredo, Texas, and are managed from an autonomous hub in San Antonio.
Who is partnering on the program?
International Motors is partnering with PlusAI, which supplies the AI-based virtual driver software and updated SuperDrive platform.
What technology is used in the trucks?
The trucks include a new compute platform, imaging radar, lidar, and cameras for 360-degree sensing. The system uses end-to-end AI models trained on real-world driving data.
Why is this important?
The trials are intended to test commercial viability, improve safety and efficiency, optimize freight routes, and reduce operating costs through automation.
How will feedback be used?
Feedback from selected fleet operators will guide technical refinements, operational changes, and potential steps toward larger deployments.
Key features and technical summary
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Vehicles | International LT Series trucks with S13 Integrated Powertrain |
| Software | PlusAI SuperDrive (updated platform with new computer) |
| Sensors | Imaging radar, lidar, cameras (multimodal kit for 360° coverage) |
| Test corridor | I-35 between Dallas and Laredo, managed from San Antonio hub |
| Objective | Gather operator feedback, validate performance, improve safety and efficiency |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- Transport Topics: International & PlusAI Trials
- CCJ Digital: International Trucks Starts Autonomous Freight Trials in Texas
- Trucking Dive: Torc Robotics Opens Autonomous Hub in Texas
- Fleet Equipment: Autonomous Trucking Hub Torc Fort Worth
- Google Search: Autonomous Trucks
- Wikipedia: Autonomous Trucks
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