Gatik's Middle-Mile Deliveries: The Key to Profitable AVs
Gatik, an upstart autonomous vehicle company, is focusing on middle-mile deliveries rather than robotaxis or semis. The company uses a fleet of around 50 trucks to transport goods from warehouses to stores, post offices, and fast food chains. Gatik has secured multiyear contracts with major retailers like Walmart, Kroger, and Pitney Bowes, and aims to generate up to $100 million in revenue within five years. Unlike other autonomous vehicle companies, Gatik's business model is asset-light, focusing on perfecting the AI that operates the trucks rather than building vehicles or sensors. The company plans to expand its fleet to over 300 autonomous delivery vehicles by 2024 and aims to be profitable by the end of 2025 or early 2026.