Technological Developments in Trucking: Driver Assistance and Autonomous Systems
The American economy relies on commercial trucking for the transport of food, fuel, and other goods. This industry is undergoing transformation driven by advanced driver-assistance features and fully autonomous vehicle systems, raising questions about job roles and industry safety.
Driver-Assistance Technology Advancements
Volvo Trucks has introduced redesigned VNL models equipped with enhanced driver-assistance features. These include camera systems designed to reduce blind spots, adaptive cruise control for automatic speed management, and braking systems responsive to traffic conditions. These technologies aim to improve safety and potentially reduce driver workload.
While such features have been common in passenger vehicles, their integration into commercial trucks has been slower. Companies like Volvo Trucks assert that these technological upgrades contribute to carrier profitability by assisting driver retention. Data analysis from the American Trucking Associations (ATA), commissioned by Congress, indicates that long-haul trucking has experienced high driver turnover, averaging over 90% for large fleets for more than two decades.
The ATA attributes this turnover to a driver shortage. In contrast, driver organizations cite factors such as low wages, challenging schedules, and insufficient infrastructure, including limited overnight parking and restroom access. Volvo Trucks' Vice President of Strategy and Marketing, Magnus Koeck, stated that improved driver comfort and advanced features can help carriers attract and retain drivers, noting that driver replacement costs can exceed $10,000. Volvo has also explored cab configurations that omit traditional driver amenities.
Development of Autonomous Trucks
Aurora Innovation is actively developing a system for fully autonomous trucks, which utilizes cameras, radar, lidar, and onboard computers. This technology is being integrated into vehicles manufactured by companies such as PACCAR (which produces Peterbilt and Kenworth trucks) and Volvo Autonomous Solutions. Other companies, including Waabi and Kodiak, are also developing driverless freight technology, with testing sites in locations like Texas.
Aurora's system has been developed using data from human drivers. As of the report, Aurora has stated the completion of over 100,000 miles of autonomous trips transporting cargo on freeways, reporting no human interventions and a perfect safety record. The company's objective is to initiate fully human-free cargo operations by Spring 2026.
Perspectives on Autonomous Trucking
Surveys conducted by organizations such as AAA and highway safety groups indicate that a majority of Americans express concerns regarding driverless vehicles. Truck drivers, including Teamsters union member Aaron Isaacs, have voiced skepticism about the reliability of technology and the capacity of computers to anticipate human driver behavior effectively.
Advocates for self-driving vehicles, such as Aurora President Ossa Fisher, contend that autonomous systems offer