San Antonio, TX, August 28, 2025
News Summary
Steves & Sons, a prominent door manufacturer in San Antonio, has partnered with Bot Auto to initiate a pilot program focusing on autonomous trucking. This program aims to enhance logistics operations by deploying self-driving trucks on routes connecting San Antonio with Dallas and Houston. With a focus on addressing the current truck driver shortage, the initiative reflects a commitment to innovation and operational efficiency. Collaborating with J.B. Hunt Transport Inc., the program seeks to streamline logistics using advanced technology over its planned four-month duration.
San Antonio, Texas: Steves & Sons Launches Autonomous Trucking Pilot Program
Steves & Sons, Inc., a leading door and millwork manufacturer based in San Antonio, Texas, has announced a partnership with the autonomous trucking technology startup Bot Auto to launch a pilot program aimed at integrating self-driving trucks into its logistics operations. This initiative is developed in collaboration with managed logistics provider J.B. Hunt Transport Inc., which will provide guidance on the deployment of the autonomous fleet.
The pilot program will initially focus on routes connecting San Antonio with major Texas cities, Dallas and Houston. As part of this pilot, the fleet will consist of five to ten autonomous trucks capable of transporting goods over these distances without human intervention.
Scott Lovett, the chief operating officer at Steves & Sons, highlighted the key goals of the partnership, specifically the company’s commitment to enhancing innovation in response to evolving customer demand. This project reflects a significant enhancement in the operational capacity and efficiency of logistics associated with plant-to-customer transfers.
Program Details and Technology
Bot Auto, which was founded by Xiaodi Hou, operates a fleet of six retrofitted trucks that transport cargo between Houston and San Antonio as part of their ongoing pilot initiative that began in March. With additional trucks currently undergoing retrofitting, Bot Auto aims for steady growth, emphasizing a careful scaling of operations to ensure readiness and safety.
The approach to autonomous trucking comes amid an acute shortage of truck drivers, with over 78,000 positions reported as unfilled last summer. Industry forecasts indicate that this shortfall could escalate beyond 170,000 unfilled positions by 2030, exacerbated by challenging working conditions and compensation issues associated with long-haul trucking jobs.
Objectives of the Pilot Program
The pilot program is designed to evaluate and enhance the efficiency of logistics planning and execution, with ongoing assessments planned throughout its four-month duration. Essential to the program’s success is the development of Bot Auto’s transportation-as-a-service model, which aims to streamline transport logistics rather than merely offering virtual driving technologies.
The autonomous trucks are being retrofitted with advanced safety systems to ensure operational reliability and safety. The integration of this technology is seen as both a technical and cultural shift for companies like Steves & Sons, who aim to invest in smarter supply chain systems.
Regulatory and Market Environment
The autonomous trucking industry in Texas has gained traction due to a favorable regulatory climate and an increasing demand for efficient freight services. The ongoing technological advancements bolster the capabilities of autonomous systems, enabling companies like Bot Auto to achieve significant operational efficiencies with reduced manpower compared to previous years.
In summary, this pilot program not only aims to fill the current gap in trucking services but also seeks to foster local job creation through last-mile delivery roles for professional drivers once the autonomous routes are established.
Key Features of Steves & Sons’ Autonomous Trucking Pilot Program
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Partnership | Collaboration with Bot Auto and J.B. Hunt Transport Inc. |
| Fleet Size | 5 to 10 autonomous trucks |
| Initial Route | San Antonio to Dallas and Houston |
| Program Duration | 4 months |
| Challenges Addressed | Driver shortage and logistics efficiency |
| Technology | Retrofit trucks with advanced safety systems |
Timeline of the Pilot Program
| Date | Event | Status |
|---|---|---|
| March 2023 | Pilot program began with initial retrofitted trucks | Ongoing |
| Present | Launch of pilot program with Steves & Sons | Upcoming |
| July 2023 | Program review and assessments | Planned |
What is the main objective of the pilot program?
The main objective is to integrate autonomous trucking into logistics operations, enhancing efficiency and addressing the driver shortage.
What technology does Bot Auto use for the trucks?
Bot Auto retrofits trucks with advanced autonomous technology and safety systems to ensure safe operations.
What logistical routes will the program cover initially?
The pilot program will connect San Antonio with Dallas and Houston, Texas.
How many trucks will be involved in the pilot program?
The pilot will involve a fleet of five to ten autonomous trucks.
Why is the demand for autonomous trucking increasing?
The demand is rising due to a significant shortage of truck drivers and the need for efficient freight services.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
North Texas Emerges as Leader in Autonomous Trucking
Dallas Welcomes Driverless Truck Operations
Additional Resources
- The Truth About Cars
- Wikipedia: Autonomous truck
- Trucking Dive
- Google Search: Autonomous trucks in Texas
- Government Technology
- Google Scholar: Autonomous trucking impact
- Transport Topics
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Autonomous vehicles
- WOAI iHeart Radio
- Google News: Autonomous trucks pilot
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