California-based Gatik AI Inc., a self-driving truck maker, has announced its third funding round of 2024, backed by Japanese logistics provider Nippon Express Holdings Inc. (NX Group). Although the financial details weren’t disclosed, Gatik plans to use the investment to expand its autonomous technology across North America.
Earlier this year, Gatik secured investments from other Japanese companies, including Itochu and $30 million from Isuzu Motors Ltd. Gatik’s autonomous trucks focus on middle-mile routes between distribution centers, fulfillment centers, and retail locations, with human drivers handling the final leg. This approach aims to address driver shortages and improve supply chain efficiency. Gatik’s network is already operational in Texas, Arkansas, and Ontario, Canada.
“Middle-mile autonomy is undoubtedly the first application in autonomous trucking to achieve scale in commercial applications. It’s also critical for solving the most pressing logistics issues businesses are facing today — ensuring faster deliveries, addressing growing labor shortages, reducing costs, and meeting the rising demand for goods in this era of rapid e-commerce growth,” Gautam Narang, CEO and co-founder of Gatik, said in a release. “Our investment partnership with NX Group is a testament to the impact we’re making in North America and the confidence of global partners in our ability to meet the evolving needs of our customers.”
