Plus Automation Inc.—the team behind some of the most advanced AI-driven autonomous trucking tech—has stepped into the spotlight by merging with Churchill Capital Corp IX, a special purpose acquisition company (SPAC). The new entity, now known as PlusAI, is ready to address some of the trucking industry’s most stubborn challenges.
Michael Klein, chairman and CEO of Churchill IX, pointed out that trucking is crucial to the global economy. With a constant driver shortage, innovations like PlusAI’s system might just be the answer you’ve been waiting for.
He explained, “Widespread adoption depends on trust in performance and safety, and PlusAI stands apart with its cutting-edge virtual driver platform and a customer-focused model driven by leading vehicle manufacturers.”
Founded in 2016 by experts in engineering, artificial intelligence, and machine learning, PlusAI has already logged over 5 million miles across the U.S., Europe, and Asia. Their journey is proof that rigorous testing can build the road to next‑gen technology.
At the heart of its innovation lies SuperDrive, a system built for SAE Level 4 autonomous operation. With a three‑layer safety redundancy designed for heavy commercial trucks, SuperDrive offers a robust approach to automation.
In April 2025, PlusAI hit a significant milestone by validating SuperDrive’s driver-out safety feature. Public road tests are underway in Texas and Sweden, with plans to expand customer trials later this year.
The company plans to launch SuperDrive‑enabled autonomous trucks in 2027, starting in the U.S. and eventually rolling out across Europe.
PlusAI’s strategy involves close collaboration with original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) like TRATON GROUP, Hyundai, and IVECO, ensuring that its autonomous trucks come factory‑built and fully supported. Backed by industry heavyweights such as DSV, Bosch, and NVIDIA, this partnership model paves the way for a scalable commercial fleet rollout.
A key pilot project in Germany saw an IVECO truck operating with high levels of automation to transport products for dm-drogerie markt along a DSV route, showcasing the practical potential of PlusAI’s technology.
Valued at $1.2 billion before the merger, PlusAI is set to raise approximately $300 million, which will help fuel its commercial ambitions ahead of the planned 2027 launch. With unanimous board approval, the transaction is expected to finalise in Q4 2025, pending the usual closing conditions.
