Auto Hauling Future
Tech Advances Coming for Commercial Trucking (Other Than Self-Driving Vehicles)
The commercial trucking industry is on the brink of a technological transformation. The next two decades will bring major advancements that improve efficiency, safety, and sustainability, from electric trucks to more innovative safety systems, enhanced connectivity, and data-driven decision-making. Obviously, autonomous trucking will be a large part of this future, which we covered in part one of this four-part series. Please see this link.
Electric Trucks and the Infrastructure to Support Them
The shift toward electric trucking is gaining serious momentum. As battery technology improves and charging networks expand, electric trucks become a viable option for more fleets:
- Volvo VNR Electric – Designed for regional distribution, this truck has a range of up to 275 miles and can recharge to 85% in less than two hours.
- Tesla Semi – With a range of up to 500 miles per charge, the Tesla Semi is built for long-haul efficiency. It also stands out for its aerodynamic design and quick charging, restoring 70% of its range in just 30 minutes.
- Freightliner eCascadia – Considered the ideal electric freight hauler by some, the eCascadia is a heavy-duty option with advanced battery technology and regenerative braking to optimize energy use, making it perfect for larger freights.
What About Charging Infrastructure?
For electric trucks to become mainstream, they need a robust charging network. Here’s what’s happening to make that a reality:
- More Charging Stations: The U.S. is pushing to install 500,000 public charging stations by 2030, thanks to initiatives like the National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) program.
- Grid Upgrades: High-powered chargers require a stronger electrical grid, so infrastructure improvements are underway. The National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) is spearheading the effort to increase the charging time of EV heavy-duty commercial trucks to 30 minutes while focusing on the upgrades needed for the U.S. infrastructure.
Smarter Trucks with Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS)
Technology makes trucking safer with advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) that help drivers stay alert, avoid collisions, and navigate more efficiently. Here are some of the key innovations:
Leading ADAS Technologies
- Continental AG – Uses LiDAR and radar to enable collision avoidance, adaptive cruise control, and blind-spot detection.
- Mobileye (Intel) – Provides high-definition mapping and real-time object detection to improve safety.
- Bosch – Uses AI-powered sensors for lane-keeping assistance, automatic braking, and highway assist features.
Next-Level Connectivity: The Power of 5G and Telematics
Fleet management is getting smarter, thanks to high-speed connectivity and real-time tracking. 5G networks and telematics systems are bringing new capabilities that make operations more efficient and responsive.
Why 5G is a Game-Changer for Trucking
- Seamless Communication: Trucks will stay connected no matter where they are, even in remote locations.
- Real-Time Data Processing: Live vehicle diagnostics, dynamic routing, and over-the-air updates will keep trucks running smoothly.
- Vehicle-to-Everything (V2X) Technology: Trucks will be able to communicate with traffic signals, road signs, and other vehicles to improve safety and traffic flow.
Top Telematics Systems Keeping Fleets Connected
- Geotab – Provides real-time tracking, engine diagnostics, and fuel consumption monitoring.
- Samsara – Uses AI to analyze driver behavior and optimize routes for efficiency and safety.
Tracking vehicle performance, planning efficient routes, and analyzing driver behavior is nothing new to the commercial trucking industry. But, the technological improvments will revolutionize fleet management.
How AI is Improving Fleet Operations
- Predictive Maintenance: AI analyzes sensor data to detect potential mechanical issues before they cause breakdowns, reducing downtime and repair costs.
- Example: Geotab’s diagnostics can flag brake or engine wear weeks before it becomes problematic.
- Route Optimization Through AI: IBM’s WatsonX adjusts routes not only in real-time based on traffic, weather, and delivery schedules but also incorporates historical data to predict delays and conserve fuel.
- Smart Operational Planning: Tools like FleetMetrics help companies calculate the total cost per trip (fuel, tolls, maintenance) to maximize efficiency and profitability.
Looking Ahead: The Road to a Smarter, Greener, and More Connected Future
The next 20 years in commercial trucking will bring cleaner energy, safer driving, smarter connectivity, and AI-powered efficiency. Electric trucks, ADAS technologies, 5G connectivity, and big data will shape a future where trucks run longer, break down less, and operate more efficiently than ever before.
If you are interested in starting in the auto hauling business or are looking for new or used auto haulers and auto hauler trailers, give us a call at Bailey Trucks; the auto hauling experts.
