Trucking is the main method of transporting freight within the United States, moving billions of tons of goods each year. This volume is expected to continue growing steadily in the coming years.
The term autonomous trucks refers to vehicles controlled remotely through systems like satellites and advanced GPS technology. Some models currently in use already provide a semi-autonomous driving mode, where both an automated system and a human operator share control over the vehicle.
There are several levels of human and machine interaction:
- Fully autonomous mode: The vehicle completes its mission entirely on its own, within a set scope, without any human input.
- Teleoperation mode: A human operator remotely manages the vehicle using video feeds or other sensory data, either by directly controlling the systems or by assigning step-by-step goals and waypoints.
- Remote control mode: The vehicle is guided by a human operator from a distance, using a tethered or wireless control system, based solely on visual line-of-sight, without any additional video or sensory feedback.
By 2027, fully autonomous trucks are expected to appear on highways, including truck platoons, where two or more trucks travel together. In this setup, only the lead truck has a driver in full control, while the following trucks are electronically coordinated.
Even with these advancements, it is expected that drivers will remain essential, particularly in tasks like loading, unloading, and handling delivery operations.
The industry continues to face a shortage of qualified drivers, currently estimated at about 50,000 fewer drivers than needed to meet demand.
As experienced drivers leave or retire, companies are offering incentives to attract new workers, including:
- Signing bonuses.
- Higher wages.
- Generous benefits, such as college tuition assistance.
There are also proposals to lower the minimum driving age, allowing drivers aged 18 to 21 to operate 80,000-pound trucks across the country.
Improving driver retention is a major focus. Many believe that having self-driving technology handle the long-haul portions of routes would help keep drivers in the industry by reducing time spent away from home, which is one of the main reasons drivers leave the profession.
The introduction of autonomous trucks is expected to happen in stages, as technology develops and the cost-effectiveness of deployment is evaluated.
However, many in the industry remain doubtful about how soon driverless trucks will become a reality. Current technological challenges—such as ensuring road safety and compliance with federal regulations—must be overcome first.
Innovations in materials, electronics, telecommunications, and emissions control are expected to push the industry toward higher levels of automation, improving both fuel efficiency and safety standards.
Safety remains the top priority when it comes to adopting highly automated vehicles (HAVs).
In 2019, the National Safety Council estimated around 40,000 traffic-related deaths, with 94% of crashes caused by human error or decision-making.
This statistic highlights the potential of autonomous technology to significantly reduce preventable accidents.
The benefits of HAVs extend beyond improving safety. These innovations could transform personal mobility, providing better transportation options for:
- People with disabilities.
- Older adults.
- Communities where car ownership is too expensive.
- Individuals who choose not to drive.
Cities may also reconsider how public space is used and public transportation systems are planned.
In addition, HAVs can contribute to lower energy consumption and reduced emissions by:
- Supporting vehicle electrification
- Increasing traffic efficiency
Truck platooning offers even greater sustainability by decreasing wind resistance, resulting in fuel savings of about:
- 10% for trailing trucks.
- 5% for lead trucks.
