28/06/2018

US roads introduce platooning

Reuters reports that Volvo and FedEx have teamed up to test 'platooning' technology on public US roads.

'Platooning' allows digitally-connected semi-trucks to save fuel by driving closely together in convoy. The testing has been carried out on a highway in North Carolina since April with three trucks towing two trailers each, a set-up that is regularly run across the US.

Keith Brandis, Volvo's North American vice president for product planning, said the tests will help the truck maker amass data to persuade other states and the federal government to permit more testing.

'Armed with hard facts and data, we hope to make our case,' Keith said. 'The business benefits of this technology will be proven in the coming months.'

Volvo and FedEx said that platooning saves fuel but could potentially be safer. There is also a low level of automation involved with the lead driver controlling the convoy, so if the driver of the lead vehicle brakes, the other trucks will brake automatically.

Daimler, Navistar and Tesla are also looking into platooning and autonomous technologies with Daimler having permission from Oregon Department of Transportation to test its platooning technology on public roads after successful trials.