Yesterday, we discussed all these new apps that are supposed to make our long-haul drivers’ lives better and easier. But, there are plenty of clouds on the horizon. As I’ve written before, those driverless cars sound pretty good- until you consider what it means for taxi drivers. That same thing applies to driverless trucks.
Oh sure, the electronic braking systems, the crash avoidance systems- they do help the trucker stay safe, protect loads, and increase profits. But, a driverless truck- that means NO more work. And, these rigs are coming. Right now, Volvo (the 3rd biggest tractor manufacturer) and Con-Way Freight are each testing such rigs. (In the US, four states- Michigan, California, Florida, and Nevada- permit autonomous vehicles on public roads – and the United Kingdom has permitted them for a few years.)
Con-Way’s research is in conjunction with the University of Maryland- but this concept also includes road sensors. (Reminds me of that great prediction GM proffered in the 1964 World’s Fair.)
Volvo is involved in a 3 year study SARTRE (Safe Road Trains for the Environment). This concept involves tractors and cars running together on the highways- using wireless technology to communicate among the vehicles. Except the first vehicle is a big rig driven by a real driver- the ones behind follow its lead. So, the other drivers can relax, do paperwork, etc. And, keep their hours of service available. Oh, and it means the other trucks are saving fuel- because it’s the first truck that is breaking the air- the others are drafting, cutting their fuel consumption dramatically.
Peterbilt is designing a whole system for WalMart- so it can supply its stores more cheaply. The rigs are more aerodynamic, lighter, and fully automated. (There still will be a driver when traffic conditions “demand”.) Oh- and the trailers- they will be entirely comprised of carbon fiber, making them lighter and stronger.
Mercedes Benz has their own version in development. Their system is called the Highway Pilot. Right now, their concept (akin to the WalMart version) is to have the drivers perform other tasks while the pilot is operational.
It’s a brave new world out there. Unless, of course, you one of those 1/2 million folks (clearly in the middle class) that are relying on your driving skills to provide your income.
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