Startup Humble Robotics Develops Driverless Freight Truck Amid Opposition

By the Editorial Team · Sunday, July 19, 2026

Humble Robotics, a San Francisco startup, is developing the Humble Hauler, a fully autonomous electric freight truck without a driver's cab, and has raised $24 million to further its development. The company plans pilot programs within a year as it navigates new California regulations that permit heavy autonomous trucks, highlighting both opportunities for cost reduction and ongoing challenges in safety and labor concerns.

Humble Robotics, a San Francisco-based startup established last year, is developing a fully autonomous freight truck that operates without a driver’s cab, steering wheel, gas pedal, or seat. The company has secured $24 million in funding to advance its cabless electric vehicle, which it says can transport freight across California and potentially other states while reducing operational costs and cutting carbon dioxide emissions.

The startup unveiled its concept in April after emerging from stealth mode, with seed investment led by Palo Alto venture capital firm Eclipse Capital and Energy Impact Partners. Humble Robotics aims to capitalize on evolving regulatory frameworks in California that are increasingly favorable to autonomous trucks operating on public roads.

Eyal Cohen, the company’s founder and CEO, described the vehicle—known as the Humble Hauler—as an electric autonomous platform designed to move freight with minimal cost. Cohen, who brings nearly 20 years of experience developing electric and autonomous vehicle technology at companies such as Uber, Apple, and Waabi, anticipates starting customer pilot programs within the coming year.

California’s Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) updated its autonomous vehicle regulations in April, lifting a prior ban on autonomous trucks weighing over 10,000 pounds. The revised rules require heavy-duty autonomous vehicles to begin testing with a human safety driver and to complete 500,000 miles of testing for each certification stage before operating without human supervision.

Despite the regulatory changes, Humble Robotics has not yet applied for an autonomous vehicle permit with the California DMV. The company initially planned to conduct testing in Texas but indicated it will adjust its approach to align with California’s new regulatory environment.

Industry experts note that while autonomous freight technology shows promise, challenges remain in terms of safety validation, regulatory approval, and labor concerns. Groups such as the Teamsters union have expressed opposition, citing potential risks to safety and job security within the trucking sector.

Humble Robotics continues to develop its technology amid these challenges, promoting its vision of modernizing freight transportation through electrification and automation.

This article was reported by synthesizing coverage from multiple independent news outlets to present a balanced, unbiased account. Read about our editorial standards. Spotted an error? Let us know.