Aurora and McLane Launch Autonomous Trucking Operations on Texas Routes

Key Details Aurora Innovation has partnered with McLane Company, a major restaurant distributor and Berkshire Hathaway subsidiary, to launch driverless trucking operations starting May 2026. The companies will deploy autonomous trucks on the Dallas-Houston route, with plans to expand across multiple Sun Belt distribution centers by year-end. How It Works The partnership uses a hybrid model where Aurora's autonomous technology handles long-haul middle-mile transport while human drivers manage final-mile deliveries. This approach keeps drivers engaged in customer-facing roles while leveraging automation for the most demanding stretches. Proven Track Record The companies completed a supervised autonomy pilot since 2023, with Aurora trucks logging over 280,000 autonomous miles in Texas and delivering 1,400 loads. The pilot achieved a 100% on-time delivery rate, demonstrating reliability with refrigerated hauls operating 24/7. Why It Matters Autonomous middle-mile operations address critical driver shortages while improving efficiency and consistency. For large fleets, this technology enables scalable capacity that flexes with demand without compromising service quality. Industry Momentum Aurora recently announced a separate deal with Hirschbach Motor Lines for 500 autonomous trucks, signaling accelerating adoption of driverless technology across the refrigerated transport sector.