https://www.cnet.com/roadshow/news/daimler-trucks-torc-robotics-acquisition-autonomous-semi/

The majority stake acquisition, which is still pending approval by US regulators, will bring Torc Robotics into the Daimler Trucks family. Torc will continue to operate as a separate entity "retaining its name, team, existing customers, and facilities in Blacksburg, Virginia," according to a statement by Daimler trucks. Daimler's investment of an undisclosed sum will allow the robotics company to expand its team and work closely to bring it's self-driving know-how (and Level 4 technology) to the development of autonomous heavy vehicles like big rig trucks. Other Daimler companies -- such as passenger car manufacturer, Mercedes-Benz -- would also benefit from Torc's tech and tighter integrations.

Daimler has already been actively developing autonomous tech for trucks. The Mercedes-Benz Actros debuted Highway Pilot assist, a semi-autonomous driving system that can steer accelerate and brake when the conditions are right. However, this automated tech is pretty much highway-bound and still needs a human to take over when the weather or road markings get bad. "Torc's Level 4 system has been shown to operate well for both urban and highway driving in rain, snow, fog and sunshine," said Roger Nielsen, CEO of Daimler Trucks North America, in a statement explaining the benefit the Torc acquisition would bring to Daimler.