At the helm is Abbi Failla, Executive Vice President of Business Operations, bringing nearly 20 years of expertise in strategy, innovation, and performance improvement across automotive, government, and non-profit sectors. Her leadership has been instrumental in guiding EASE’s pioneering efforts, particularly in securing grants that fuel research and development.

EASE’s journey into autonomous trucking began with targeted funding from DriveOhio, Ohio’s regional transportation innovation initiative. These grants enabled EASE to deploy its first autonomous trucks equipped with Bosch technology, providing valuable insights and real-world operational experience. Bosch’s systems served as a vital testing platform, helping EASE refine its autonomous solutions.

Building on this foundation, EASE secured a second grant for the I-70/Kratos project—an innovative initiative featuring autonomous trucks designed for specialized applications such as wide-load and heavy-haul transport. Kratos, known for manufacturing versatile autonomous trucks, has also demonstrated success in agricultural settings, showcasing the technology’s adaptability beyond traditional freight corridors.

A key focus for EASE is developing autonomous solutions capable of operating reliably in challenging environments, including harsh winter conditions. Kratos’s autonomous systems are engineered to perform effectively in snow and cold, making them ideal for regions with severe winters—an essential feature for serving northern and rural areas.

Kratos’s technology also stands out for its compatibility across most truck brands and models, removing barriers for fleet operators. This approach aims to democratize autonomous trucking, making it accessible for smaller fleets and independent operators—traditionally sidelined by high costs and complexity.

EASE Logistics actively collaborates with DriveOhio, the Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT), Indiana Department of Transportation (INDOT), and Kratos Defense and Security Solutions. The company serves as the host fleet partner in this cutting-edge project exploring platooning technology, where trucks electronically connect and operate in coordinated groups. Although the current deployment involvesactive drivers in platooning mode, the vision is to leverage autonomous systems to optimize safety, efficiency, and driver wellbeing.

Peter Coratola, Jr., President and CEO of EASE Logistics, emphasizes the transformative potential of these innovations:

“Our collaborations are paving the way for more advanced autonomous technologies, like interactive ADS and platooning, which could reduce delays, improve safety, and lower emissions.”

Looking ahead, EASE’s steadfast commitment to innovation, strategic partnerships, and real-world deployment positions it as a trailblazer in autonomous freight transportation. With ongoing investments and a vision to revolutionize logistics, EASE aims to make freight safer, more efficient, and accessible to a wider range of operators.

Abbi Failla will discuss these exciting developments as a guest on “The Haul of Fame Podcast” on May 15, 2025—don’t miss it!

About EASE Logistics:
A six-time Inc. 5000 company and recognized among Fortune’s “Most Innovative Companies,” EASE Logistics is building a state-of-the-art facility at the 33 Innovation Park in Marysville, Ohio. Covering approximately 25 acres, the site exemplifies EASE’s commitment to leading the future of freight with autonomous and innovative logistics solutions.