Autonomous vehicle hype is back, and Humble Robotics is bringing it to freights | Equity Podcast

In this talk

1. 2:45

   Why the autonomous vehicle cycle feels familiar

   Cohen compares the current robotics moment with earlier waves in electric vehicles, solar, and autonomous vehicles. He says excitement and investment often give way to doubts before the technology matures. In his view, the work can take 15 to 25 years, while investors may move on and builders keep improving the technology.

2. 10:02

   The case for a cabless freight platform

   Humble Robotics started from a question: what is the simplest robotics platform for moving freight from A to B? Cohen says a platform without a cab appeared feasible given current technology, costs, regulations, and business discussions. He points to freight platforms already operating in places such as the Long Beach Container Terminal.

3. 14:18

   What the technology can do today

   Cohen says Humble’s vehicle can handle relatively short freight routes under 50 miles in certain locations, with engineering still needed for its autonomous driving system. He expects the technology to improve, but says the company is estimating how that progress will line up with its business needs. Humble currently uses cameras, LiDAR, and radar.

4. 16:07

   Vision models and building the team

   Cohen says pretrained vision models have recognized scenarios such as traffic cones, traffic lights, and officers directing traffic, which previously could require months of engineering. Humble is bullish on these models but is not committed to cameras alone. He says the company drew experienced colleagues from about seven companies and advises founders to build a compelling culture, give people responsibility, and keep teams efficient.