BLACKSBURG, VA – Torc Robotics today announced that it recently obtained a permit for autonomous testing of self-driving cars in California, joining 50+ other firms.
Torc did not test drive in California during its cross-country trip last summer in its Asimov self-driving car system. “Driving cultures differ across regions, and it’s important for self-driving cars to accommodate the rules and driving customs of different places.”
“As we continue to refine our self-driving car technology, we want to test our system in many different situations,” said Torc CEO Michael Fleming. “We are continually seeking ways to make self-driving cars as safe as possible.”
Torc is partnering with AAA Northern California, Nevada & Utah (NCNU) to develop safety criteria for self-driving cars through a testing program. The partners collected data in Las Vegas earlier this year and plan to test in California. The experience and information gathered will help inform safety for the developing industry.
The partnership combines Torc’s self-driving technology expertise with AAA’s experience as the country’s oldest traffic safety organization.
“Working with Torc has given us the opportunity to observe the autonomous vehicle testing process firsthand,” said Tim Condon, President & CEO of AAA NCNU. “Industry collaboration and strong partnerships are key to the successful, safe implementation of this developing technology, and Torc has been committed to that vision since they were founded more than a decade ago.”
About Torc Robotics
Torc Robotics, headquartered in Blacksburg, Virginia, provides end-to-end self-driving solutions across multiple industries, including automotive, mining, and defense. Founded in 2005, Torc has integrated its components and systems on ground vehicles ranging from consumer SUVs to 300-ton mining trucks—in safety-critical environments. Torc first gained notice when it developed the self-driving software stack for Virginia Tech in the 2007 DARPA Urban Challenge. As one of three winners of the DARPA Urban Challenge, Torc has commercialized this technology through partnerships with original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) and their Tier 1 suppliers.
About AAA NCNU
AAA Northern California, Nevada & Utah offers a wide array of automotive, travel, insurance, DMV, financial services and discounts to more than 5.8 million members.