DAF Trucks and Swedish technology company Einride have begun a joint development project on autonomous electric trucks. The plan is to integrate Einride’s Driver autonomous driving system into DAF’s electric vehicle platform. The target is SAE Level 4 autonomy. Within a defined operating area and under specified conditions, the truck would be able to perform the driving task independently, without requiring human intervention. The project is notable because it applies an autonomous driving system to the platform of an established European commercial vehicle manufacturer. The approach is also intended to keep the software independent of a particular vehicle brand. 2026 will focus on testing the interfaces Before an autonomous DAF truck can be tested, the vehicle architecture and driving system must be connected and validated as a single system. Working with Dutch research institute TNO, DAF and Einride will first define and assess the necessary interfaces. These must allow the autonomous system to access and control the truck’s functions reliably. The first interface tests and validation activities are planned for 2026. Einride’s autonomous driving software is scheduled for integration and commissioning in 2027. Further interface and functional testing will then be carried out on a DAF truck. The project is therefore still at the development stage. The companies have not disclosed any initial customers, specific transport routes or a timetable for commercial operation. Public roads are already part of the plan The development is not intended solely for closed or private sites. With TNO’s support, DAF and Einride say they are already working with the relevant type-approval authorities. The platform is being prepared both technically and from a regulatory standpoint so that autonomous operation can later be extended to public roads. That does not mean the truck has already been approved for regular road use. The partners have not said