Applied Intuition: AI for Moving Vehicles and the Future of Defense Tech
Key Concepts:
- AI in moving vehicles (cars, trucks, tanks, planes)
- Dual-use technology (commercial and defense applications)
- Autonomous vehicles (robo-taxis, self-driving cars)
- Physical AI
- DoD adoption of commercial technology
- IP theft and competition with China
Applied Intuition's Mission and Technology
Applied Intuition, co-founded and led by CEO Casser Eunice, is an AI company focused on bringing intelligence to moving vehicles. This includes cars, trucks, tanks, and planes. The company develops the underlying technology for autonomous systems, working with companies like Tesla and Waymo on the commercial side, as well as defense primes and the Department of Defense (DoD). Their technology transforms traditionally human-operated machines into intelligent systems capable of thinking alongside or independently of human operators.
The Rise of Autonomous Vehicles
Eunice believes that autonomous vehicle technology is reaching a tipping point, similar to the proliferation of mobile phones. While there isn't a specific date marking its widespread adoption, autonomy is becoming more mainstream, driven by companies like Tesla and Waymo. This "physical AI" wave follows the current focus on language models and AI assistants, bringing AI into the real world.
Safety and Regulation
While no technology is perfect, Eunice argues that autonomous vehicle technology is already as safe as, or safer than, human drivers in many contexts. She points out that the development and regulation of cars took decades, with the Department of Transportation only emerging in 1967, despite the car being invented in 1886. She suggests using the metric of "safer than a human" as a proxy for readiness, rather than waiting for comprehensive regulations.
Origin Story and the Shift to Silicon Valley
Eunice's background is rooted in Detroit and the automotive industry, having attended the General Motors Institute and worked in manufacturing. Recognizing the shift in technological innovation, she moved to Silicon Valley 20 years ago. She sees the US as undergoing a retooling of its expertise, similar to her own transition.
Rapid Deployment for the US Army
Applied Intuition demonstrated its agility by rapidly deploying its technology for the US Army. After Army Secretary Driscoll saw their commercial applications, Applied Intuition integrated its technology into an Army infantry squad vehicle in just 10 days, showcasing the speed and efficiency possible when bureaucratic hurdles are minimized. This success highlighted the contrast between commercial and defense acquisition timelines.
DoD Adoption of Commercial Technology
Eunice believes the DoD is poised to adopt more commercial technology due to two factors: policy makers recognizing the problem and taking action, and the increasing consumerization of technology. The widespread use of AI tools like ChatGPT is driving demand for better technology within the DoD. She also notes a cultural shift in Silicon Valley, with more tech companies willing to work on defense projects. Applied Intuition's stance is that American companies have a responsibility to support the US government and DoD, especially given the close relationship between military and civilian sectors in adversarial nations.
Global Competition with China
Eunice acknowledges that while the US remains a leader in technology, China is a significant competitor. She emphasizes that China operates under different rules, particularly regarding intellectual property (IP). The key challenge is how to compete when IP theft is rampant. Eunice likens IP theft to factories being physically moved to another country, highlighting the real economic value at stake. She calls for policies and actions to protect American companies and IP.
IP Theft Concerns
Eunice states that every hard tech company in Silicon Valley faces the pressure of IP theft. While some companies ignore the issue, Applied Intuition believes in taking action both at the company level and as a community. She frames the issue within the context of global economic order, where differing views on IP rights create challenges. She references Senator Rounds' statement about $600 billion in annual IP theft, underscoring the magnitude of the problem.
Potential IPO
When asked about plans for an IPO, Eunice states that the company is doing well but declines to comment specifically, promising to share information when available.
Synthesis/Conclusion
Applied Intuition is at the forefront of integrating AI into moving vehicles, serving both commercial and defense sectors. The company's success highlights the potential for rapid innovation and the growing importance of commercial technology in defense. However, challenges remain, particularly regarding competition with China and the need to protect intellectual property. The company is well-positioned for future growth and a potential public offering.
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