Prototype of the L5 Autonomous Truck Begins Full Testing Cycle
The innovative autonomous truck prototype has commenced comprehensive testing. At the international AI Journey conference (Journey into the World of Artificial Intelligence), Navio unveils the Prototype of the L5 Autonomous Highway Truck—a driverless solution eliminating the need for a traditional cabin.
Functionality
Navio’s universal software stack complies with traffic regulations and handles all road scenarios. Certified as SAE Level 5 (full automation) by the Society of Automotive Engineers, the truck operates entirely without human intervention.
The autonomous system continuously processes data from lidars, radars, and cameras to monitor the road, traffic participants, infrastructure, and static objects.
It maintains precise lane positioning, speed, and distance, executing lane changes when required. The truck navigates toll booths, loading zones, and performs emergency maneuvers to avoid collisions.
Safety
The L5 meets stringent functional safety and cybersecurity standards. Redundant critical systems ensure reliability even during component failures. A remote operator supervises operations 24/7.
Teleoperations specialists track real-time data via V2X (vehicle-to-everything) technology. The L5’s sensors provide live diagnostics, enabling the teleoperations center to address issues or dispatch assistance.
Design
The L5 design merges aesthetics with functionality. Its aerodynamic proportions minimize drag, while the absence of windows underscores its fully autonomous nature.
A continuous LED light band acts as running lights, symbolizing seamless motion. Interactive panels let the AI driver communicate with pedestrians and vehicles via text/graphics, enhancing safety.
Efficiency
The L5 cab is universal, compatible with chassis from major manufacturers. By omitting human-centric features, production costs are reduced. Its aerodynamic design, combined with platform elements, lowers drag for the entire vehicle.
The AI driver optimizes acceleration/braking forces. With its aerodynamic efficiency, the L5 can reduce fuel consumption by up to 15% and cut total freight costs by 30%.
Operating in convoy mode on highways—the longest leg of freight routes—the L5 minimizes delivery times. Without needing breaks, it achieves up to 23 hours of daily utilization.
##Testing
The prototype is undergoing lab testing (simulators, HIL rigs) and real-world trials at a closed proving ground. Vehicle-in-the-loop (VIL) testing simulates edge-case scenarios before public road deployment. Future scaling leverages Generative AI (GenAI), developed in partnership with Sber.