#147 – Peter Vaughan Schmidt | Torc Robotics – Autonomous Trucking & Playing Offense in a Dynamic Macroeconomic Environment

Peter Vaughan Schmidt is CEO of Torc Robotics. Key topics in this conversation include: The current state of the autonomous trucking industry Why Torc is playing offense while others are playing defense Torc’s technology approach and path to commercialization How autonomous trucks will integrate into fleet operations Peter’s advice for building a successful and fulfilling career Links: Show notes: http://brandonbartneck.com/futureofmobility/peterschmidt https://torc.ai/ https://torc.ai/torc-new-ceo-peter-vaughan-schmidt/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/peter-vaughan-schmidt-420a20134/ Peter’s Bio: Prior to joining Torc in 2022, Dr. Peter V. Schmidt was the head of the Autonomous Technology Group for Daimler Truck for three years. Before leading that organization, he managed the strategy organization for Daimler Truck, where his focus areas included the Chinese market, autonomous technology, electrification, connectivity, and digital transformation. Dr. Schmidt also previously led Daimler’s global product and platform management for medium and heavy truck engines worldwide, as well as holding roles in engine production and plant management. Before joining Daimler, Dr. Schmidt was a principal and consultant at McKinsey & Company serving the automotive industry. About Torc Robotics: Torc Robotics, headquartered in Blacksburg, Virginia, is an independent subsidiary of Daimler Truck AG, the global leader and pioneer in trucking. Founded in 2005 at the birth of the self-driving vehicle revolution, Torc has 17 years of experience in pioneering safety-critical, self-driving applications. Torc offers a complete self-driving vehicle software and integration solution and is currently focusing on commercializing autonomous trucks for long-haul applications in the U.S. Torc operates test facilities in Albuquerque, New Mexico, and an engineering office in Austin, Texas. Torc’s mission is saving lives with autonomous technology, which incorporates reducing highway deaths, enabling critical supplies – including medicines and foods – to reach every community in a timely manner, and helping the transportation industry increase fuel economy, uptime, and capacity. Future of Mobility: The Future of Mobility podcast is focused on the development and implementation of safe, sustainable, effective, and accessible mobility solutions, with a spotlight on the people and technology advancing these fields. linkedin.com/in/brandonbartneck/ brandonbartneck.com/futureofmobility/