trucking

McLane, Aurora Innovation Expand Driverless Operations Across Texas

McLane Company and Aurora Innovation are scaling autonomous truck operations in Texas following a successful pilot program that began in 2023. The partnership has accumulated more than 280,000 autonomous miles and completed 1,400 deliveries using Aurora's self-driving system. Driverless trucks now operate on the 240-mile route connecting Dallas and Houston, with plans to add service to additional Sun Belt distribution centers by year-end. The automated vehicles handle long-haul segments while McLane drivers manage local last-mile deliveries to restaurant customers. The food supplier operates more than 80 distribution centers nationally but faces regulatory hurdles, as autonomous truck rules vary by state. The initiative addresses persistent driver shortages while maintaining service consistency for McLane's customer base.