Overland AI Unveils ‘Spark’: Turning Vehicles Into Fully Autonomous Platforms

Washington-based startup Overland AI has unveiled a groundbreaking technology that could revolutionize military logistics.

Introducing “Spark,” a “comprehensive autonomy kit” designed to transform any ground vehicle into a fully autonomous platform.

The technology integrates the company’s advanced OverDrive software stack with existing vehicle hardware, allowing it to carry out missions without human intervention.

Spark includes a LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) component and high-resolution stereo cameras to see through darkness, dust, and storms. It also enables operators to track movements via integrated GPS.

“Autonomous vehicles are force multipliers that allow a single operator to control multiple vehicles, all while out of harm’s way,” COO Greg Okopal explained. “Our troops deserve access to this technology in a matter of days, not years.”

‘Immediate Path to Autonomy’

Spark’s drive-by-wire design enables quick installation while retaining a vehicle’s manual control capabilities when needed.

This key feature makes the technology an “immediate path to autonomy,” eliminating the lengthy timelines typically associated with acquiring new autonomous systems.

“By integrating Spark, the [Pentagon] and other government departments can transform their existing fleets into autonomous ground vehicles, rapidly and at scale,” Overland AI co-founder Byron Boots stated.

“This immediate capability provides tactical advantages in a military theater that is changing minute over minute.”

In addition, Spark features a cutting-edge communication system that ensures connectivity with operators, even in degraded or denied environments.

It leverages Starlink, tactical mesh, LTE, and Wi-Fi when available, ensuring mission continuity in even the harshest conditions.