Glid Unveils New Autonomous Road-Rail Vehicle Pilot in California

Glid Technologies has launched an autonomous road-rail vehicle project on California’s Skunk Train route to boost low-emission logistics and utilize underused railway infrastructure. This is reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

Based in Utah, the company is partnering with Mendocino Railway to deploy its Glider M hybrid model and a fully electric autonomous variant on the 40-mile corridor from Willits to Fort Bragg.

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These dual-mode vehicles can switch between roads and rail, carrying up to 80,000 lb (36,000 kg). Glid’s model looks like a flatbed platform with no cab, designed for trailer freight transport.

The autonomous road-rail vehicle uses patented technology that enables it to self-connect to a trailer’s kingpin and axle, then move onto tracks without human drivers.

Autonomous Road-Rail Vehicle to Modernize Freight Logistics

Glid’s primary focus is freight—moving waste, agricultural goods, minerals, and even military cargo. Its aim is to decarbonize rural supply chains and provide cheaper logistics for underserved areas.

These cab-less vehicles can be monitored remotely from a central hub and controlled as needed. The electric version joins the GliderM Alpha, a biodiesel-hybrid model built for the same route.

Glid’s Autonomous Road-Rail Vehicle Hits Skunk Train Tracks

Leadership behind the project includes experts from SpaceX and Canoo, and Glid claims to hold a signed order from a logistics company, though it has not been publicly named.

So far, no real-world demonstrations have been shown, but the pilot program may mark a breakthrough in freight automation. The coming months will test if Glid can meet its promises.

Source: newatlas.com

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