PlusAI shores up OEM partnership ahead of public offering

Group 1 - PlusAI is part of a growing number of developers focused on deploying autonomous driving technology in the trucking industry, alongside companies like Kodiak AI and Aurora Innovation [3] - The global trucking market is large enough to support multiple autonomous technology developers, but PlusAI aims to differentiate itself [4] - PlusAI's merger with Churchill Capital Corp IX is expected to close in February 2024, following the SEC's declaration of effectiveness for its S-4 filing [4] Group 2 - The expected cash infusion from the IPO will support PlusAI through the commercialization phase, emphasizing the importance of partnerships with OEM truck manufacturers [5] - PlusAI believes that an OEM-led, factory-built model is crucial for safe and scalable commercial deployment, collaborating with established brands like Traton's International and Hyundai [6] - The partnership with Traton Group allows for board representation and access to manufacturing resources, facilitating the use of PlusAI's technology across Traton's truck brands [7] Group 3 - PlusAI is conducting fleet trials with a top-10 for-hire carrier in Texas and is also testing its technology in Sweden and Spain with Traton and Iveco, respectively [8] - PlusAI has secured a $25 million commitment from Traton Group to scale production of autonomous trucks, building on an existing partnership for the commercial launch of factory-built driverless trucks in 2027 [9] - Aligning with established manufacturers is a key strategy for PlusAI to rapidly deploy its technology globally as it approaches its U.S. public offering [9]